10 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT WES ANDERSON

Known for his distinctive filming style, unique choice in script, and stunning visuals, Wes Anderson has made a name for himself in the film industry. As an American director and screenwriter, Anderson has worked with the best of Hollywood giving movie lovers wonderful works such as Moonrise Kingdom, The Royal Tenenbaums, and Fantastic Mr. Fox. In his latest film, The Grand Budapest Hotel, Anderson does not fail in giving viewers an eccentric and witty dialogue that only he could deliver in such a way. With Anderson at the top of his game, here are a few facts about the talented director you might not have known.

1. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou was sparked partly by Anderson’s childhood fascination with Jacques Cousteau, but also by “an idea about a boat that’s been cut in half.”

2. The story of The Royal Tenenbaums was inspired by the chance purchase of a CD of Maurice Ravel music in college.

3. His favourite Alfred Hitchcock film is Rear Window because of its point of view.

4. He was introduced to the concept of video piracy by his childhood doctor.

5. His fascination with tree-houses probably comes from The Swiss Family Robinson. 

6. He became close friends with Owen Wilson because Owen Wilson just suddenly started acting as if they were close friends.

7. Bottle Rocket, Wes’s first feature, was rejected by every festival Anderson submitted it to.

8. The role of Royal Tenenbaum was written for Gene Hackman “against his wishes”.

9. When the producers didn’t want to pay for a helicopter shot for Rushmore‘s “A Quick One While He’s Away” montage, Murray wrote a cheque to cover the costs of chopper rental.

10. Royal’s line in The Royal Tenenbaums, “I know you, asshole!” is lifted from Witness.

Discover more of Wes Anderson’s eccentricities in THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL – In Cinemas March 7.