The Wes Anderson Effect: art direction’s importance in big films
4. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)
Art Director: Stefano Maria Ortolani
Set Decorator: Gretchen Rau
During this sub-marine adventure, oceanologist Steve Zissou and his red-capped, speedo-wearing shipmates are on a mission to hunt down the killer “jaguar shark” that murdered his partner Estaban. Throughout the film, you can appreciate the indigo and sapphire blue colour schemes that suit the tropical yet rustic tones displayed from scene to scene. In contrast to the recurring slapstick humour the art direction in the film oozes elegance. The royal red carpets accompanied by the earthy 70s decor on his worthy vessel “The Belefonte” act as the perfect vehicle to carry the personality of Anderson’s characters. It’s like Kool-aid in a wine glass.