Review of The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004) by Charlie S — 10 Aug 2014

This movie truly does not deserve the mixed reception it has received from critics. As a recently christened WA fan, I finally got around to sitting to watch The Life Aquatic, after seeing the name floating around for the past 10 years.

I found this film to be fantastic, and above all unique in a way which few movies have managed in recent years. I feel that it has been panned by some critics as they are somehow disappointed to see WA demonstrate his classic cinematic and directive techniques - but that is really the charm of this film.

The use of stop motion animation was a delight to see, as it has sadly fallen into disuse. It is the originality of this film that has made it so lasting and I think I can safely say that it is now one of my top 20 movies of all time.

Sometimes (okay, more often than sometimes) the critics really need to be ignored in favour of audience opinion. This film cannot be overanalysed, only taken at face value - and at that, it is remarkable.

Please do not be rebuffed by its critical rating, and give this movie a try. You won't regret it.