The Darjeeling Limited

"We... haven't... located... us... yet." Wes Anderson's classic poetics grafted onto a train road-movie that is not as good as The Life Aquatic, but better than The Royal Tenenbaums. And “classic" is the most important word here. Yes, Wes Anderson is still working in completely different spheres of creation than anyone else. But in his sphere, he's kind of beginning to steal from himself. This time he can get away with it without any major problems, but I'm rather afraid that if he doesn't try something else, his style will soon become boring. Which would be a tragedy of greater proportions than eating Esteban. And would you like to know something about the movie itself? Well, you have the answer right at the beginning of this review. (02/25/2008)

A funny initiating road movie and a sarcastic picture of contemporary Western civilization and its hunt for mysticism from a guide. It is hackneyed, but impressively presented by three brothers on a pilgrimage for self-knowledge and finding enlightenment... Through an environment that is reminiscent in its role of Tokyo from Lost In Translation. Unlike The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, The Darjeeling Limited is a much more formally tighter film, quite possibly less bizarre, more accessible and more focused on the inner life of the three main actors. The unbearable Wilson, the resigned Brody and the hotshot Schwartzman display truly amazing acting. Civilly, without awkwardness, without the desire to make you laugh with something conspicuous. Their relationships are quite bizarre, yet believable, as are their gradual transformations. I consider the way in which the key moments of the film are underscored by diverse music to be the last building block that makes me value Anderson's film so highly. It is not only a filmmaking, but also a spectator's pleasure. A comedy that you need to think about. But as soon as you put out your cigar and accept the rules of the Darjeeling Express, there is no going back. [9/10] (01/30/2008)

No, it's not that I don't like Wes Anderson's films, quite the opposite, they are fascinating with their poetics, which is mostly beautiful, but "Darjeeling" just didn't click with me. I think India could have been utilized much better, but unfortunately, that didn't happen. This is more of a bit peculiar comedy rather than a film that can captivate the viewer, as other Anderson's films have managed to do. (03/27/2014)