Bottle Rocket is not only Wes Anderson’s directorial debut but also the debut feature for brothers Owen and Luke Wilson who co-star in this bright, optimistic caper comedy about a trio of friends and their elaborate plans to pull off a robbery and go on the lam. Critic Matt Nolan said Bottle Rocket should be remembered as “the film that gave the director the power and name recognition to continue making the films he wanted to make.” Of course those films---including Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, The Darjeeling Limited, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Moonrise Kingdom, and The Grand Budapest Hotel---are known for their distinctive visual and narrative style and have garnered critical acclaim for Anderson. Starring Luke Wilson, Owen Wilson, and Ned Dowd; directed by Wes Anderson; 91 minutes; 1996.
The movie and discussion are free to attend. The ongoing film series is presented by Plank Town Restaurant and Brewery and coordinated by a partnership with the Springfield Library and Willamalane Park & Recreation District.