Review of Isle of Dogs (2018) by Kenr — 05 Feb 2019

Anyone who likes a different kind of storytelling should find something to appreciate in this offbeat, but winning movie. Regardless of being a stop motion ‘fairytale’ (?) there’s enough gritty realism and unexpected themes explored to make this quite compelling indeed! Others, I feel have looked too deeply into the political and racial aspects of the, at times, rather emotional situations covered by writer/producer/director Wes Anderson (even though there are certainly many astute observations to be considered). Alexandre Desplat’s excellent and highly inventive music score adds much mood and movement to overall proceedings. While I expect, “Isle of “Dogs” won’t be everyone’s choice of entertainment it will please and intrigue more than it may alienate. I had not read anything about this movie before watching and was convinced it was a Japanese production – only to be surprised at the finish to find it was mostly American. Highly recommended for a somewhat sardonic, dark and insightful journey into imagination and would expect it should garnish some attention at this year’s Global Awards. The visuals by British cinematographer Tristan Oliver are standout.

While not many may remember a British animated film by Richard Williams from ‘58 titled: “The Little Island” much of the humorous visual style of “Dogs” bears a resemblance and makes this rare featurette worth seeking out – simultaneously very funny and serious.