The Royal Tenenbaums - 9 stars out of 10

The Royal Tenenbaums - 9 stars out of 10

If you enjoy Arrested Development, you will love “The Royal Tenenbaums”!  The quirky characters, narrative style, quick cut scenes, ridiculous dialogue, and hysterical situations make this an extremely entertaining experience.  The movie's introduction is the perfect start, memorably introducing each character and their quirks.  A constant stream of comedic devices drives the film with subtle things like the sad Charlie Brown music that plays when Gwyneth Paltrow is in a rut.  The film is also filled with exaggerated running gags like the way that the other family members treat Paltrow because she is adopted.  A lot of comedies have iconic comedic moments that you talk about and constantly quote.  “The Royal Tenenbaums” is different, deriving its humor from the unrelenting absurdity of its characters and how their quirks create conflict.  This all-star cast does an incredible job of portraying this diverse grouping of characters.  Ensemble casts tend to be hit or miss, but Gene Hackman, Anjelica Huston, Luke Wilson, Danny Glover, Bill Murray, and the rest of the cast develop amazing chemistry.  I typically dislike Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson, but I even loved them in this.  The writers have some great clever moments:  "Is that a Tic-Tac?" and Margot's life montage are amongst my favorites.  There really is no other film like “The Royal Tenenbaums,” but you will laugh from beginning to end as these characters create humor just by being themselves.