The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

The eccentric members of a dysfunctional family reluctantly gather under the same roof for various reasons.

Jess’ Review

I’m a big fan of Wes Anderson and remember attempting to binge-watch his filmography during my time at uni. Needless to say, only a few of these films stuck with me and received adequate attention at the time. The Royal Tenenbaums didn’t make this list. I watched it, but I didn’t take it in, and so I find myself revisiting it today. The story follows the three, adult Tenenbaum siblings, Chas (Ben Stiller), Margot (Gwyneth Paltrow) and Richie (Luke Wilson), as the eccentric family is reunited upon the hearing of their father’s inevitable death. It’s a star-studded cast with a lot of Anderson’s regulars - all of whom do a fantastic job at bringing to life these outlandish, but ever-so complex characters. I simply cannot choose a standout, as each performance is so unique and the calibre is consistently high. The visuals are wonderful in typical Anderson style. Stylistic composition, vibrant set design and a beautiful attention to detail, The Royal Tenenbaums is a feast for the eyes. It’s one of the reasons I admire Anderson so much, for his creativity in the visual elements is just so distinctive and unique. It’s art. Anyone can make a movie, but how many filmmakers take the time to consider colour palettes and symmetry within their shots? Some do, I’m sure. But Anderson is a master of this trade. The plot moves at a steady pace, aided by a narrative style that separates the film into chapters. I love this technique, and feel that it really helps audiences digest the scope of this universe. The Royal Tenenbaums is bursting with vibrant and quirky characters, and whilst certain players hold the spotlight - such as Gene Hackman’s scheming patriarch, Royal Tenenbaum - there is room for everyone. Which is an impressive feat in itself. There is not one character that I consider to be neglected - they all have depth and history, they all have charm and they share the screen wonderfully. Whilst Anderson’s films are known for their comedic qualities - and Tenenbaums is no different, I hadn’t expected the level of drama to accompany it. The light-hearted tone shifts almost seamlessly to encapsulate the layers of abandonment, heartache and grief experienced by the dysfunctional family. Intense at times and exploring some profound themes, the film is well-rounded and doesn’t limit itself to some cooky character study or run-of-the-mill romance. It’s an expansive plot that seeks to encompass the range of human emotion and experience. Whilst I have my firm Anderson favourites, The Royal Tenenbaums is a testament to his skill as a filmmaker. I thoroughly enjoyed it and considered it to be yet another example of the man’s character-building brilliance.

7.5/10

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Sam’s Review

As somebody who hasn’t experienced Wes Anderson much, stylistically this was a delight. He paints scenes in pastille hues, yet the muted colours still mange to seem vibrant. The camera is often on the move, jittery almost, as if it’s eager to hone in on the action. Rather than off putting, it’s endearing. It’s apt perhaps that this film is presented as a book, as Anderson is regarded as a modern-day auteur. The fact it’s told in such a way, narrated by Alex Baldwin and his rich voice, adds to the boutique style.

While the beginning is clever, setting the tone and giving us an insight into the dysfunctional characters, is does drag ever so slightly. Though, for the most part, the pace is brilliant. Somehow it moves quickly, yet enjoys lingering in moments, capturing them fully. It never feels rushed.

The writing is sharp. Subtle callbacks referencing previous topics are fantastic. And the dialogue is delectable, managing to balance a eerily calm approach to even the darkest subjects. What intrigues me the most is the intricacies between the characters. They are woven together so cleverly. However, none more so than Royal, brilliantly portrayed by Gene Hackman. Surely this is one of the finest characters ever crafted. He’s clearly an awful person. But as a character, his awfulness is brilliant. He’s incredibly self-serving, yet his wit is so sharp and his plans are so desperate that you can’t help but root for him.

The Royal Tenenbaums is an investigation into character, a study into damaged humans. It relishes the sadness, using a subtle hand to reveal the sombre misery beneath. Sadder still is the way it looks at connection, how these hurt individuals are trying to heal and connect with one another. The way it pains some, and thrills others. As far as film goes, these are some of the most interestingly complex characters I’ve witnessed, and they have such a wealth of depth to them.

While much is done phenomenally, what strikes me the most, was how forgettable it is. I adored the characters, and the writing, I found it funny and charming, and yet moments after the film, Jess and I were already discussing other things. An hour after watching it, I’d forgotten we’d actually watched a film at all. It genuinely shocked me, since I was so enamoured while viewing it. It’s as if it’s missing a final part, something so minuscule I can’t even recognise it, that prevents it from being masterful. It’s still a brilliant film, and I enjoyed it while it was on, it just didn’t leave a lasting impression.

8/10