Wes Anderson

IMDb: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0027572/
Biography: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wes_Anderson

NEW! Check this out: Wes A's undergraduate writing (from the official literary journal of the University of Texas). Here

Wes Anderson is one (or only"my") of my favourites film directors. [Thanks Lucía for your recommendation]

I don't dare to compare Wes Anderson with Woody Allen, because of many reasons including the unique style, the striking inteligence and the "original applied sense of humor" of Woody; highly recognized attributes all over the world. Regarding the "original applied sense of humor" concept, I would say it's just the best title I've found to sum up his reflections about some special topic, which are always true and subtle funny. In other words, I'm talking about those times when Woody A (specially as an actor) recites several mini-monologues in response to a certain topic or refutes some argument, doing a really deep analysis of the topic, with a considerable high words/time density.

Beyond that both have the same initials, his style is quite different. Even though, if I have to point out the next Woody A, I would say is Wes A. Regarding his style, is hard to define. Wikipedia says "Anderson's films combine dry humor with poignant portrayals of flawed characters – often a mix of the wealthy and the working class". I agree that combines dry humor (I don't understand the concept completely, but let's say it is subtle bizarre, simple and original), and that has defective characters (far from the typical American's characters). One of his most famous fans is Martin Scorsese.

In respect of actors, he is known for working with many of the same actors on different projects. His main actors are Bill Murray and Anjelica Huston, followed by the brothers Owen and Luke Wilson. In my opinion is an excellent combination, and helps to explain the style of Wes A. Another highlight is Jason Schwartzman. And finally I would like to say that it was because of him that I would consider Gwyneth Paltrow as more than an angel face, since The Royal Tenenbaums is undoubtedly her best film.

Regarding his movies, I recommend first see The Darjeeling Limited, as an introduction to Wes A's world. Then continue by The Royal Tenenbaums and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, and finally the rest. I find no justification for this order, rather than personal taste.