Reviewed by Kate Rodger
Let me fess up right here right now, there is not a single Wes Anderson film I have not loved to its core. Each is better and more assured than the last, and each without fail resonates and connects on some if not every level. The Darjeeling Limited remains one of my favourite films of all time. Now he turns to good ole fashioned stop motion animation, adapting Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr Fox for the big screen. And fantastic it is.
Anderson fleshes out the children’s book, adding a healthy dose of filial dysfunction and plenty of coming-of-age at any age delights, crafting a film for pretty much everyone.
George Clooney could not be better cast as Mr Fox, with Meryl Streep his long-suffering foxy wife. Anderson regulars abound – Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray and Owen Wilson all lend a hand, or should that be voice, as they all get together to tell the tale of Fantastic Mr Fox.
Our Mr Fox is having issues resisting his primal urges. His daily job as a local newspaper reporter just isn’t cutting the mustard, what he really wants to do is what he was put on this planet to do, steal chickens.
So despite repeated promises to Mrs Fox, he starts sneaking out at night to steal chickens from the three nastiest farmers you ever did meet. Before long, farmers Boggis, Bunce and Bean vow revenge, and Mr Fox and all his neighbours all pay the price.
There are too many highlights of this gorgeous little film to list, but along with Mr Fox himself, I salute the lone wolf in a scene so inspired it made my heart sing.
Already up for a Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature and I would bet this week’s pocket money an Oscar nod won’t be far away, this Fantastic Mr Fox is a delight from go to woah and a must see.
5 Stars.
Fantastic Mr Fox
:: Director: Wes Anderson
:: Starring: Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Meryl Streep and Owen Wilson
:: Running Time: 87 mins
:: Rating: PG
:: Release Date: Out now
::
Trailer: Click
here
