Whenever Wes Anderson works on a new title there is always some significant buzz. After all, many of Wes Anderson films have turned into cult classics in their own right. With the recent release of Asteroid City we wanted to take a look at some of the best Wes Anderson movies and so we’re ranking them below.
Who is Wes Anderson?
Wes Anderson is an American filmmaker who has had lots of success in the movie industry due to his distinct style. He has directed and developed many movies with a list of star studded cast members including Bill Murray, Anjelica Huston, Tilda Swinton and more.
During his time as a filmmaker he has been nominated for several awards and has won a Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and the BAFTA Award for Best Original Screenplay.
What makes a Wes Anderson film?
Wes Anderson’s films have a distinct style usually characterised by their eccentric use of colour, unique visuals and characteristics. Many classify his style of film making as postmodern which uses earlier styles and conventions and a mixing of artistic styles.
Commonly in Anderson’s films you’ll find an ensemble cast of different characters that the film follows, usually played by a notable list of actors.
Ranked Wes Anderson films
#10 – The French Dispatch (2021)
The French Dispatch was one of Wes Anderson’s most recent features which follows a collection of stories written by American Journalists outposted in France. Although many cited the work as having the brilliant style of a Wes Anderson film, others found the film to lack substance.
#9 Bottle Rocket (1996)
Bottle Rocket follows several characters who carry out a heist and although it’s clever in its characters and plot, this film predates Anderson’s distinct filmmaking coming into fruition and is the least stylistically strong film on this list.
#8 The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
Although this is a great early feature from Anderson and one that likely put his film making on the map, there is still a distinct amateur quality to the filmmaking skills of the filmmaker in these early days. This film follows three distinct siblings who have all experienced success in a hyper realistic version of New York City.
#7 Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
Moonrise Kingdom follows a 12-year old orphan on the coast of New England. In the film he falls in love with a girl named Suzy and they run away together which prompts a town wide search for them both. This film’s visual style is enjoyable and with such a heartwarming story to follow, many viewers will appreciate this title.
#6 The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)
When The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou hit cinemas in 2004, many considered it a box office flop. In recent years however, the film has garnered a cult following of fans who enjoyed following the title character.
#5 Isle of Dogs (2018)
Although a slight deviation from his usual style, the use of stop motion animation in this feature was distinct. Isle of Dogs follows a young hero and an exiled dog on a journey of discovery. Despite it’s cartoonish quality, it may not be very appropriate for children and have as much universal appeal as Anderson’s other animated feature Fantastic Mr. Fox. The Isle of Dogs will more likely appeal to cinephiles and those interested in stop-motion animation and Anderson’s visual style.
#4 Asteroid City (2023)
This new Wes Anderson movie has recently been released. It follows a group of visitors to an astronomy convention in 1955. With a huge cast of brilliant stars, Asteroid City is already doing well at the box office and amongst reviewers.
#3. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
The first of Wes Anderson’s foray in animation, Fantastic Mr.Fox is an adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved novel. It’s a great watch and is beloved by many fans of Roald Dahl’s work and is considered a classic by many.
#2 Rushmore (1998)
Rushmore is one of Anderson’s early works. It’s a comedy that follows a student who is an overachiever and falls in love with his teacher who he then attempts to woo. The soundtrack to Rushmore is great and you can really see the beginnings of Anderson’s style. Starring Bill Murray and Owen Wilson, this is definitely a film to check out for Anderson fans.
#1 Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
Grand Budapest Hotel is perhaps one of Wes Anderson’s most notable films. The film’s visuals are impeccable as it follows a hotel concierge, Gustav H. on various adventures. The film is set in a fictional European country between the World Wars and is certainly an entertaining watch. It was nominated for Best Director and Best Picture at the Academy Awards.
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We hope you enjoyed our list of the top Wes Anderson movies. For many people, Wes Anderson is considered an iconic director, to others he is still one of the most overrated directors. Despite this, it’s good to make up your own mind by delving into this list of his best work, especially with the recent release of Asteroid City.
