Show Notes: Movies First with Alex First on "Asteroid City"** - **Introduction**: Dive into the imaginative world of Wes Anderson's latest film, "Asteroid City". - **Setting**: The story unfolds in 1955, where a TV host presents the fictional drama, "Asteroid City". - **Main Characters**: - **Conrad Erp (Edward Norton)**: A renowned playwright whose latest work is introduced. - **Orgy Steenbeck (Jason Schwartzman)**: Arrives in a fictional desert town for a junior astronomy convention with his four children, including the intelligent Woodrow and his three assertive sisters. - **Stanley Zach (Tom Hanks)**: Orgy's disapproving father-in-law, shocked that Orgy hasn't informed the kids of their mother's demise. - **Mitch Campbell (Scarlett Johansson)**: A renowned yet skeptical actress who catches Orgy's attention. - **Plot Highlights**: - The Steenbeck family's car malfunctions, leading to a call for assistance to Stanley. - Orgy carries his late wife's ashes in an unconventional container. - An unexpected twist when an extraterrestrial visits the convention, leading to a quarantine. - **Performance Highlights**: - Schwartzman and Johansson's chemistry is electric, especially in scenes across adjacent windows. - Margot Robbie's anticipated appearance as Orgy's late wife is memorable. - Brian Cranston shines as the TV host from the Black and White era, while Edward Norton captivates as the playwright. - Tom Hanks surprises in a unique, judgmental role. - **Themes & Observations**: Beyond the comedic elements, the film touches on serious topics like the atom bomb, presenting them in a style distinct from traditional narratives like Oppenheimer. - **Production & Design**: A nostalgic nod to the past, the film's design and sets are a delightful homage to a previous era, exuding playful charm. - **Alex's Verdict**: "Asteroid City" is a blend of humor, drama, and classic Wes Anderson quirks. While it can be challenging to follow at times, it's undeniably engaging. Alex's rating: 7.5/10.
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