This is just a strange film! All 3 of the main characters seem either dumb, mentally unable, or just plain lame. There is a robbery, some hotel time, and then another robbery. In between, just lots of uneasy interactions between characters, especially Dignan and Anthony. I'm really not sure what to make of this, but James Caan is in it. Hmm...

Because I enjoyed "The Grand Budapest Hotel" so much, I decided to go back to Wes Anderson and check him out some more. So I went all the way back to his first directorial debut (not counting something short done before) and was pleasantly surprised. Just as I expected, back than at the age of 26 he didn't have all the financial background he can command today and yes, it does look like it was done on a shoe-string budget but at the same time it bursts with youthful energy, enthusiasm and absolutely endearing earnestness. Basically ignored by industry back than, "Bottle Rocket" was made by bunch of friends and it is about bunch of friends, sweet gentle losers who decide to turn to life of crime and adventure (they have plan for the next 75 years). The problem is, they are not really so dangerous or brutal, these are just three naive guys who can hardly have a conversation without getting into arguments and fights with each other. Luke Wilson and Robert Musgrave just tag along behind wonderful Owen Wilson who is heart of the movie, he is so darn crazy and sweet and annoying simultaneously that you are not sure do you want to hug him or hit him over the head. Almost everything they planned (and much more than they expected) goes terribly wrong and you can't help but to love them seriously for all their confused efforts and sincere love between them. Its not funny in a roaring way, but it touches you really deep because they are basically three outsiders with their own problems who understand and support each other. At the end of the movie I surprised myself being genuinely touched and even teared up a bit. More I think about it, more I am convinced its one of those sweet, unforgettable little movies that nobody has ever heard of. Martin Scorsese paid attention.

This is definitely seen as one of Anderson's lesser films, seeing as how it's definitely a lot less "Anderson-like" in its approach and style. Still, it's pretty good and pretty entertaining. The actors do a nice job, especially Luke Wilson. While Owen has always been more talented when it comes to comedy, Luke really knows how to make the most out of his dramatic talent and he's able to nail dramatic ticks and notes in his character that I don't think I've seen him do since (not in film, but certainly in Enlightened). Overall, this isn't such a big deal and it maybe didn't show the kind of stuff Anderson would go on to do, but it's definitely good.

Anthony (Luke Wilson) is released from a mental institution and hooks up with his friend Dignan (Owen Wilson) who hatches a scheme to rob his former boss Mr Henry (James Caan). Anthony falls for motel maid Inez (Lumi Cavazos).This is the first big screen attempt for director Wes Anderson. It has flashes of his unique style already. It has the camera work, some quirks and the music. However the story is a rambling mess of aimless people. While the group of friends have some quirks, they're not weird enough to be funny. The Wilson brothers are showing their charismatic banter. It's a charming indie where everybody is trying their best and having a bit of fun.