Wes Anderson’s unique style may not resonate with everyone. Some audience members could find his quirky humor, deadpan ridiculousness, and meticulous cinematography unappealing. Yet, for those who admire Anderson’s unconventional cinematic vision, his 30-year journey offers plenty to cherish, including his peculiar characters, their intricate familial relationships, and his elaborate mise-en-scène.
Few filmmakers possess such a distinctive and frequently imitated aesthetic (though it has never been replicated, even with AI’s efforts). Anderson’s balanced compositions, detailed production aesthetics, large ensembles of unforgettable characters portrayed by famous actors, and nostalgic rock soundtracks render his films uniquely his own.
Although these films exude a certain charm, they do not take themselves overly seriously, embracing a playful tone. Nevertheless, we approach the task of ranking them with seriousness. Concentrating on Anderson’s 12 feature films (excluding his short works like Netflix’s The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, which garnered him his first Oscar), we have ranked Wes Anderson’s films from least to most favored.
There isn’t a genuinely bad entry in his filmography; while some may have not aged well, others have gained depth with time. Even those set in specific time periods feel timeless due to his nostalgic yet always fresh style. Which tale of misfits will claim the top spot?
12. The Darjeeling Limited
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Anderson’s films typically showcase intricate characters who are more endearing than genuinely likable, but the trio in The Darjeeling Limited ranks as his most unbearable and least compelling leads. Anderson favorites Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody, and Jason Schwartzman portray brothers navigating their father’s death while journeying across India by train. They embark on a quest for self-awareness, with the individuals they encounter acting more as experiences than authentic people. The film applies the same treatment to these minor roles.
Anderson often employs settings or cultures for his own narrative needs instead of engaging with them sincerely. This is particularly clear in this 2007 comedy, where the demise of an Indian child acts as a trigger for the brothers’ development. This isn’t a plot revelation, as narrative is not the primary focus in Anderson’s works. Some character development occurs, yet by the film’s conclusion, they remain predominantly self-centered and stagnant.
Regardless of its shortcomings, The Darjeeling Limited stands out as one of Anderson’s most vividly colorful films, particularly through its vibrant use of yellow. The director skillfully depicts the nuances of sibling dynamics, though he lacks the same depth with any of the Indian characters.
How to view: The Darjeeling Limited can be rented or purchased on Prime Video.