Moonrise Kingdom (2012)

Quirky, odd, eccentric, witty, funny. All accurate words to describe Wes Anderson's latest film. Set in 1965, Sam Shakusky (Jared Gilman) and Suzy Bishop (Kara Hayward) are two pen pals who have a secret pact to run away with each other. They camp and hike in order to find a secluded cove, which they have named Moonrise Kingdom. Their efforts are in vain, as Suzy's parents find her and refuse to let her see Sam again.

Kara Hayward as Suzy Bishop. Source: Collider

In a world full of rules and order, Sam and Suzy rebel against everything they've been taught. By doing so, the community crumbles and falls apart, but is even more tight knit when the two young lovers are reunited. There is a constant push and pull between authority and freedom and it's a theme that is recurring throughout the film. 

Moonrise Kingdom is an imaginative tale full of whimsy heightened by the use of music, especially that of Benjamin Britten. As someone who had previously studied and performed Britten's 'Simple Symphony', I can appreciate the beauty of the film even more. 'Playful Pizzicato', the second movement of the Symphony used prominently throughout the film, is light and airy, showing the innocent nature of the two children. The piece's fast tempo translates into telling the story of the short lived adventure that they embark on.

The remainder of the ensemble cast including Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, and Bill Murray to name a few complete the chaos. They are distraught and uncomfortable with the rebellious actions of Sam and Suzy whose escapade only further enhances the older generation's unhappiness with their own lives.

The film is both strange and enchanting. It's cleverly written and well directed. Viewers are not transported into Anderson's Kingdom, but rather he teases us by placing us right at the border. Close enough to see what's going on, but not close enough to become personally invested in the chaos. It's a private world that we get the privilege of peeking into.

Rating: 8/10