THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL

In some cases, I believe that it is entirely justifiable to say you just really enjoy something, without actually being able to explain why. Certain movies, songs, places, and even people just give off an unusually enjoyable and welcoming energy. Overanalyzing in order to find the source of these experiences may not do them justice, but that is exactly what I will attempt to do with regards to Wes Andersons 2014 film "The Grand Budapest Hotel".

When I first saw this film, I had not previously seen any of Anderson's films. Quickly, any moviegoer will sense that his movies are distinctly stylized and meticulously eccentric. "The Grand Budapest Hotel" is certainly no different. The pastel colored sets, charming original score, and pacy yet meditative story make this movie thoroughly delightful and easy to watch. Anderson's elegant visual style transports viewers into a fantasy-styled, early 20th century Europe. It creates its own artistic historical setting which essentially acts as its own character in the already star-studded cast.

"The Grand Budapest Hotel" boasts an impressive ensemble, including a number of acclaimed figures, such as Jude Law, Willem Dafoe, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Murray, Adrien Brody and Harvey Keitel, among many others. The combination of high level talent and clever writing makes even some of the film's minor characters endlessly entertaining. Even the relatively unknown Tony Revolori stands out as Zero, the unassuming lobby boy who acts as viewers' favorite sidekick. Ralph Fiennes, however, is undeniably the standout in this film. Playing Monsieur Gustave H., the witty and profane, yet loyal and caring concierge of The Grand Budapest. Fiennes drives the unconventional story with dry humor and precise delivery. Though most of his roles previous to this one were not at all comedic in nature, the performance is simply hilarious. Without question, M. Gustave has become one of my personal favorite characters from any movie, and Ralph Fiennes is the one to thank for that.

In its most basic form, you could say that "The Grand Budapest Hotel" is a crime film, as the conflict and adventure arise from the theft of an invaluable painting. It contains drama, murder, and an underlying mentor-student relationship story. However, nothing about this movie wants to be taken that seriously. Its scenes, dialogue and characters are playfully crafted, and as viewers we are meant to sense a comedic tone rather than a solemn one. I would describe this movie as exceptionally "watchable". It doesn't require much as far as deep thinking and reflection, as it abandons the melodrama of most films with adventure and crime themes. What it does bring is characters, music, and settings which effectively transport viewers to an exciting, imaginative time and place. When its all put together, there's just something about it that is obscurely loveable. There is no question that its quirky, but its quite frankly a whole lot of fun.

RATING: 9.5/10