Directed by Wes Anderson
5 Stars
In the fictional city of Zurbroka in 1968, an author visits the once-famous Grand Budapest Hotel. During the visit, he meets the hotel's concierge Zero (Tony Revolori/F. Murray Abraham). The author is intrigued by how Zero became the owner of a once-prestigious establishment. Zero reveals that he didn’t always own the hotel and started as a lobby boy working for the previous concierge of the Grand Budapest Hotel, Mr. Gustave. H. (Ralph Fiennes). What follows is the story of the growing bond between Zero and Mr. Gustave in a movie that is unbelievably heartwarming.
The Grand Budapest Hotel is a quirky, fun, fast-paced film with many of Hollywood’s most recognizable celebrities. Which are mandatory traits for director Wes Anderson. His camera work is above all others with his extremely symmetrical shots and exaggerated colour palettes which help create a story so outlandish and removed from the real world that still teaches lessons that should be used today. The story moves at a face pace that is engaging and enjoyable to watch without harming the development of its characters. The Grand Budapest Hotel’s enjoyability may come from its unique style but it more importantly comes from the two lead characters, Zero and Mr. Gustave. Zero is a young immigrant boy looking for work who falls into the position of lobby boy in the Grand Budapest Hotel. Zero is awkward yet eager to learn from Mr. Gustave H., who takes plenty of pride in the hotel’s prestigious reputation and is intrigued by Zero’s lack of experience yet willingness to learn. Their bond and respect for each other conclude in an unforgettable, noble, sad, yet cheerful ending.
The Grand Budapest Hotel is a funny, bright, deep, and undoubtedly odd movie that will instill civility and confidence in its viewer. For ages 13+, I recommend it.
Reviewed by Hiero V.
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