Cousin Ben Troop Screening (2012)

Cousin Ben Troop Screening Poster

Cousin Ben hosts a screening of Wes Anderson's Moonrise Kingdom to the troops.

Introduction
"Cousin Ben Troop Screening" is a cinematic short from 2012, composed and directed by Wes Anderson. Although this movie was short (just 2 minutes long), it effectively handled to load an impressive depth of storytelling and visual elegance. The narrative focuses on the character Cousin Ben, who was originally introduced in Anderson's acclaimed function film "Moonrise Kingdom" (2012).

Plot Overview
The movie opens with Cousin Ben, played by actor Jason Schwartzman, preparing a movie screening for a group of excited cub scouts in the outdoors. This is not just any motion picture, but rather it is a movie that gives guidelines on how a scout troop ought to act. The set is reminiscent of a camp in the wilderness; there are tents, camping chairs, a projector, and a white screen waiting for the film reel.

Cousin Ben, atop his leadership pedestal made from a tree stump, is responsible for ensuring the three scouts viewing the screening follow the rules and behave appropriately. He unravels the projector screen, loads the reel, and starts the movie, all with the stern seriousness of a colonel at an army station. The way he works out authority and mesmerizes his audience is both outstanding and amusing.

Character and Film Theme
Cousin Ben performs his tasks with an over-exaggerated severity, which results in humorous discussion and antics. His character, like lots of in Wes Anderson's repertoire, is inexplicably eccentric, which leaves the audiences intrigued and entertained. His beauty and totally recognized, over-the-top character echo those from the highlight, "Moonrise Kingdom", and this might please viewers who were left desiring more from this world.

The film sustains a typical style in Anderson's works-- the innocence of children juxtaposed versus adult-like roles and obligations. The cub scouts are shown to understand the rules established by Cousin Ben and ask pointed questions about the film screening that demonstrate their maturity.

Atmosphere and Visual Style
As is customary in Anderson's films, the visual style of "Cousin Ben Troop Screening" is meticulously curated. The rich color scheme, nostalgic props, and picturesque outside setting all integrate to create a gorgeous image that amuses the viewers' senses. The filmmaker's signature design, with his choice for proportion and carefully choreographed motions, appears throughout this brief film and lends it a sense of familiarity for those familiarized with Anderson's work.

Conclusion
Regardless of being under 2 minutes long, "Cousin Ben Troop Screening" is a fantastic patchwork of visual expertise, humor, insight, and storytelling. It works as a wonderful buddy piece to "Moonrise Kingdom", including further depth to the eccentric world that Wes Anderson has produced. The short film is a testament to Anderson's ability to weave appealing narratives, irrespective of format or film period. The movie makes sure to leave audiences mesmerized and yearning for longer experiences within Anderson's clearly pictured universes.

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