Review of Isle of Dogs (2018) by Mitchell L — 11 Oct 2018

Dogs are often called a man's best friend. But, what if the opposite were to happen and dogs became man's worst fear? Witty, adventurous, and eccentric. Wes Anderson creates yet another masterpiece which is his latest film. Like most Anderson films, the protagonist/s is often set upon a wild long journey. Whether its a journey of self-discovery, resolving of family issues, or just adventures in general. Isle of Dogs takes the same classic signature Anderson elements but develops these into a new and refreshing idea that does not fail to entertain the audience once again. The story revolves around the lives of dogs in Trash Island after being exiled from Megasaki City. They journey within its grounds after the governor's son arrives here in search of his dog and how they are able to return back to their homeland. The film pulls viewers into its story through its unique storyline and characters. Dogs are normally not protagonists of films. But, the fantasy-based plot leaves viewers strapped to their seats, wanting to see the next events that will happen in the film. Anderson utilizes his fictional ideas, placed into film to create a one of a kind story, making us invest in the film, which is typical of Anderson's films. The unique story of this film makes this piece a movie to watch for all people wanting something new to add to their collection of movies.

Majority of the film, the dialogue between the dogs and humans are separeted by the language barrier of the English speaking dogs to the Japanese dialect the humans speak in. When watching the film, the viewer is left without subtitles for these parts. Some people might say the subtitles were left out because it helps us to pay more attention to the film and try to grasp the meaning of those scenes. Some people might say that it represents the reality of our relationship with dogs and how we as the viewers are placed in the shoes of the dogs in the film. I believe that Wes Anderson intentionally left out the subtitles for the Japanese parts because he wants the audience to interpret his film in their own way and how they see and understand it. There is no right or wrong interpretation of his film but rather it is left to audience to discuss and understand his film in their own way and what they see as best fit to them.