The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
Metascore
62 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 38 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 38
  3. Negative: 2 out of 38
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  1. Christian Science Monitor
    Reviewed by: David Sterritt
    100
    The director of "Rushmore" and "The Royal Tenenbaums" scores his most funny-sad movie to date.
  2. Premiere
    Reviewed by: Glenn Kenny
    100
    Aquatic maintains its buoyancy throughout.
  3. Time
    Reviewed by: Richard Schickel
    100
    For those of us who think this is the best comedy of 2004, the genius of the movie lies in its relocation.
  4. Los Angeles Times
    Reviewed by: Carina Chocano
    90
    An exquisitely evocative movie that elevates rueful melancholia to a superpower.
  5. Philadelphia Inquirer
    Reviewed by: Steven Rea
    88
    Like the old and creaky Belafonte, the film itself seems forever on the brink of drifting away. But it's the kind of drifting that's nothing but enjoyable. In fact, it's beyond enjoyable - heading into waters full of whimsy, mystery and odd, psychedelic fish.

User Reviews

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User Score
7.0 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 199 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 85 out of 131
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 131
  3. Negative: 37 out of 131
  1. Tokyochuchu
    7
    The Life Aquatic is colorful, poignant and very, very funny. It has a high level of random insanity that never fails to induce chuckles. The cast is magnificent, the script is awesome and stuffed full of quotable lines and the effects are hilariously charming. This is one of Anderson's best movies and a must see for Bill Murray fans.… Full Review »
  2. hootis
    10
    If you think the trailer is funny, then you will like this movie a lot. if not then you probably won't like the movie, its kinda funny because your not sure if its serious or not and follows a wierd niche of humor which i happen to like a lot. And it keeps finding ways to catch you off guard while still fitting with the consistent humor… Full Review »
  3. ALF
    0
    Sadly more rubbish inflicted on the public from Wes Anderson. This film is appalling, there are no redeeming qualities and I can only suggest if you wish to actually die of boredom, then watch this film. With the Royal Tennebaums it takes pride of place as being the joint worst film I have ever seen in my life.… Full Review »
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