Movie Recommendation: Submarine
March 25, 2020 • Written by Megan Lis
Do you ever feel sick and tired of watching the same predictable and mildly unimpressive Hollywood film? Have you too experienced the unique mind numbing pain caused only from money-grabbing corporations shoving their hot garbage down your throat? I clearly have! Let me tell you something, that sure as heck ain't happening on my watch. Not today! Instead, I will be referring you to one of my absolute favorite and timeless independent films.
Submarine is an incredible piece of quirkiness directed and written by Richard Ayoade. Narrating this unique story is Oliver Tate, a fifteen-year-old Welsh boy who can't seem to get out of his own head. Convinced that his mother is having an affair with her ex-flame/ninja, Oliver sets out to save his parents' marriage by any means necessary. And if that isn't troublesome enough, he also has to juggle a newfound budding relationship with his pyromaniac classmate Jordana. Oh, the sweet, sweet memories of adolescent years.
Aside from that beautiful mess, one of the many reasons I love this film is Ayoade's captivating cinematography and camera work. It gives the viewer a unique introspective look into a young boy's hyper-analytical and sometimes self-sabotaging mind, and doing so in the most charming way possible. Including deadpan comedy and interweaving it with a surprisingly gripping plotline that sneaks up on your heart. And don't even get me started at the gorgeously muted yet poppy color palette! Talk about quality Wes Anderson feels. With a sublime soundtrack, the mood of this film is enhanced with the low-key intimate vibes from Arctic Monkeys, Alex Turner. Basically, this film is any angsty art student's wet dream. Submarine is far from predictable, providing an organic and relatable storyline that keeps the viewer hooked the entire sit through. Filled with tastefully dry humor, peculiar characters, breathtaking shots, and relatable voice-overs, you won't help but fall in love with Ayoade's offbeat film.
