Fantastic Mr. Fox

Release Year: 2009

Director: Wes Anderson

Review: After seeing the trailer, I was dubious if this style of stop-motion animation could be pulled off without feeling completely out of place.  These fears were completely unfounded.  The style works and is central in making this odd, but thoroughly enjoyable, film work.  Based on the Roald Dahl's book, helmed by Wed Anderson and having a star packed cast, this could have been a huge disappointment.  Fortunately everything melded perfectly together.  Taking a simple, classic, story Anderson pumps it full of a creative energy that makes every second of it feel refreshing.

I thought this was an odd choice for Wes Anderson, but I think it would have floundered under almost anyone else.  Anderson's talent at creating a quirky, but not over the top, atmosphere, allows the emotion and humor to blend while remaining grounded and earnest.  It continues the trend of quality family movies that appeal to everyone, not because they they stuff in adult oriented jokes, but because they don't pander to a young audience.  It is a film which can be enjoyed by any age without losing the emotional edge. There are great character moments, which creates a warmth which abounds.  It is easy to like, and empathize with, the the cast of critters trapped beneath the ground.  Above all else, this is about relationships.  Relationships between husband and wife, father and son, family and community.  This is very much a Thanksgiving movie, even if it is not directly mentioned.  The themes expressed and the mood captured go a long way in making this a holiday classic, and a fine family film in general.
Rating: 4/5