Review: The French Dispatch

Arthur Howitzer Jr. (Bill Murray) is the editor of an American paper based in Paris. He loves his writers, and in Wes Anderson's new film, we're taken through an issue of The French Dispatch story by story.

I can't even begin to list the actors in this film. There's so many. We follow the stories in the paper, some varying in length. A reporter who bikes everywhere, a convict and his CO muse. A chef, a journalist, and some very eager revolutionaries. There's plenty to see here.

The film has its signature Wes whimsy and quirkiness. He makes the strange decision to go back and forth between color and black and white, which makes parts of the film quite dull in contrast to others. I'm sure most will love the gradient shift. I didn't care for it. 

The actors are all very good in their roles, though some don't get much to do at all. Benecio del Toro, Lea Seydoux, Steve Park, Tilda Swinton, and Timothee Chalamet stand out to me. There's some fun cameos in there as well. I was happy to see Saoirse Ronan, Tony Revolori, Alex Lawther, Rupert Friend, and Toheeb Jimoh pop up for a few minutes each.

If you don't care for Wes Anderson movies, this one isn't going to sway your opinion, but if you're a fan of his work, you'll like this too. Personally, this ranks higher than his last work, Isle of Dogs for me. 

Recommended: Yes

Grade: B

Memorable Quote: "Poor baby." - Simone (Lea Seydoux)