4. The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou
Buena Vista PicturesThe Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou is the 2004 release from acclaimed director Wes Anderson. The film follows an eccentric oceanographer and documentarian who sets out to exact revenge on the mysterious jaguar-shark that ate his best friend. Although the film has a lot to do with sea-life, very few real ocean critters actually make an appearance. Various forms of animation were used to represent the animals in the film, with some fish being computer rendered while others, such as the jaguar-shark that appears above, look almost clay-animated. However, the visual inconsistency does not detract from the film and, in fact, adds to its charm. Critics had a field day when The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou was first released, claiming it was "pretentious". But, I mean, come on, it wouldn't be an Anderson film if it wasn't at least a little bit pretentious. Plus, the film has Anderson regulars Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, and Jeff Goldblum, all of whom find themselves in tip-top shape for their roles. All in all, The Life Aquatic is well worth the watch, and is a great addition to the Wes Anderson line-up.