WES ANDERSON’S 1ST SHORT
Bottle Rocket With The Wilson Bros.
Instead of Wes Anderson’s upcoming film The French Dispatch, here is a stunning short Anderson film (his first) which matches the noir aesthetic, cinematic depth, and plot complexity of his 2020 feature. Starring Owen and Luke Wilson, Bottle Rocket is about two burglars robbing houses and cars, showing us their compatible chemistry as they escalate to their final job. They travel to diners, stealing cars to show how mundane actions can create significant short cinema moments.
The two steal money from houses and cars and go through various challenges to steal items on a list from Anthony, one of the protagonists. Dignan, his partner, steals a critical thing, which pisses off Anthony. The two then hit a diner to discuss the next big heist. Anthony robs a car for extra cash before they pick up guns for the job. They devise a scheme to overtake a bookstore while recruiting another driver, Bob, to help. Because police have discovered Bob’s marijuana crop, the group is intent on finding another way to pick up “dough.” They plan to rob the bookstore–Bob, Dignan, and Anthony discuss the shop’s blueprint as they check for access to the site. In the end, they divide the loot, part ways, and go off to live their lives.
There are noir style shots which are reminiscent of films from the 50s–close-ups show characters with contrasts between black and white to create tension. The film’s images are strong and carry symbolic weight as the mundane activities and locations these burglars visit to take power away from their evil actions. Wilson delivers a star performance, showing passion and careful characterization of Dignan, who always aspires to collect a “bigger bag.” The thieves work together to win over their competitors and score big on the robberies. PROVOKR loves this film and encourages you to check it out above soon!
