I am admittedly behind the times to only watch and review this film now, but I am not a big fan Wes Anderson and therefore put it off. What a mistake that was.
The Grand Budapest Hotel is a fascinating film that must be studied to be properly appreciated. For example, I noticed immediately the first time the frame ratio changed but not that every time period had a unique ratio until looking at it again. Also being set mostly in the 1880s the old style iris effect was used to end some scenes and focus on a single character. The way the camera moved was usually quick to lead you toward what was important rather than focusing on every detail.
The story itself is straight forward but the way it is told is not. The story is in four times; a young lady visiting the memorial of an author and remembering his book; the author explaining how he got the idea for the book; the author listening to someone tell him the story; the story. Each of these time periods are visually distinct with colour palette and frame ratio as well as set and wardrobe that match each period.
Up Side
I enjoyed this movie as a visual experience and a study in editing. I liked the characters and enjoyed the little visual jokes. There are matte paintings, illustration/animation shots to push the style of the whole film.
Down Side
A lot of swearing and implied sex, also a naked women art piece and out right talk about sex. But it is rated R so that is to be expected. Also there is a dismembered head at one point, it is shown briefly and doesn't look too real.
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