The Darjeeling Limited (2007)

Overall rating from 1 to 100: 71

O Masterpiece (100)
X Excellent (75-99)
O Rental (60-74)
O OK (50-59)
O Mediocrity (30-49)
O Avoid (1-29)

Mini Review by Jason Pyles / November 10, 2007

“The Darjeeling Limited” consists of two parts: Part 1 is a short film called “Hotel Chavelier.” It is only marginally relevant but mostly unnecessary to its following Part 2, which is the whole feature film itself. You’ve probably already heard, the most noteworthy thing about this otherwise unmemorable prelude is we are shown a different side of Natalie Portman, namely her backside, which I’ve heard from “reliable Irish sources” she reportedly now regrets. (My concern from the scene was primarily anorexia.)

But don’t see “The Darjeeling Limited” for Natalie Portman. If you’re a fan of hers and want to see her true acting prowess, watch the opening of “Free Zone” (2005), a film where the camera holds a close-up of her face while she weeps heavily for eight minutes. That may be the most difficult acting feat I’ve ever seen executed on film.

I digress. “The Darjeeling Limited” is an atypical (albeit recognizable) Wes Anderson film that leans more upon the serious than the silly (which is not to say that there isn’t silliness). Three brothers played by Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody and Jason Schwartzman meet on a train in India to embark on “a spiritual journey.”

This arty film is interesting to watch, easy to look at, creative and whimsical but not overly engaging. There are a couple of humorous moments, and even some poignant moments, but the sum loses something that the individual parts have on their own.

Certainly, “The Darjeeling Limited” is a must-see for any Wes Anderson fan, and probably even required viewing for any lover of film; but if you want to be solely entertained in the escapist’s sense, see something else.

Directed by Wes Anderson
Owen Wilson / Adrien Brody / Jason Schwartzman
91 min. Comedy / Adventure
MPPA: R (for language)

Copyright 2007. 207