A first-rate Wes Anderson original with a sci-fi magic twist [Cannes 2023]

Anderson’s choice to frame “Asteroid City” as a play within a soap opera within a movie (yes, you read that right) is simply the excellent first element of this delicious film. As the events of the story begin, the narrating character of Bryan Cranston greets the audience, who sets the scene about a prolific American playwright and his epic “Asteroid City.” It’s a really fun plot device that’s unexpected and totally welcome, allowing the audience to effectively ponder the film’s deeper questions as the characters do, especially as they break the illusion of their presence in the story.” dummy”. Edward Norton stars as legendary playwright Conrad Earp, who only exists outside of the central story in small, world-shaping cameos, and also brings a sweet sense of creative magic to the overall story. After all, writers are the ones who really shape our worlds, real or imagined.

The author’s decision to delve into the science fiction genre is very welcome, considering that he had never taken that kind of step before. Anderson is having a lot of fun with the genre in this film, but he’s not afraid to combine it with other more conventional genres, like drama and romance. It’s normal for him, but Anderson knows he’s at his best when he does a combination of everything. “Asteroid City” really is no exception, and it’s fun to watch the movie fully enjoy and establish itself through its genre leanings, Anderson’s dialogue, and its actors’ physical character-building.