REVIEW: Isle of DogsBy Bri ManzanoApril 16, 2018Isle of Isle of Dogs.

It’s not your traditional animated movie. It’s not really for young kids. They’ll probably get bored. But if you have eyes, you are going to love this movie.

Isle of Dogs follows five dogs as they help a young boy locate his own pet. Japan, concerned by a rampant dog flu, has deported all dogs to a nearby island of waste known as Trash Island. Man’s best friend no longer bears that title, save for among a lonely group of rebels who aim to aid attempts to cure the dog virus and return dogs to loving homes.

Wes Anderson’s directorial style is a character of its own in the film. It contributes to the quiet - charm is not a strong enough word - charisma, let’s say of this gorgeous and beautifully crafted animated film.

Just try not to be awed by Isle of Dogs’ visuals. Stop-motion is utilized in all its glory, and intentional shot composition is religiously revered. The setting is original; the color palet is distinct; every frame is stunning. I have to give this film high marks based on visuals alone.

The film also has a unique cadence - a very genuine presence not found in most modern animated movies, or even in most modern movies in general. There is clever humor; the jokes aren’t cringey, and they aren’t predictable. You don’t feel like you’ve seen these exact characters a thousand times before. Isle of Dogs doesn’t fit the mold, and again, for that I have to give it high marks.

The “small” story does follow a pretty standard outline, and there are one or two remarks here or there I would have written differently. For these reasons I don’t feel right calling Isle of Dogs “perfect.” But I have no qualms recommending it to anyone and everyone who even mildly enjoys absolute art.

Rating: 8.75/10

Favorite scene: all of the visuals.
Least favorite scene: the ending.

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