Bottle Rocket (1996)

80% of critics liked it
(44 reviews)
79% of users liked it
(56,796 ratings)

A bright, optimistic caper comedy from first-time director Wes Anderson, Bottle Rocket focuses on a group of young Texans aspiring to become master thieves. Their leader is Dignan (Owen C. Wilson, who also co-wrote the screenplay), an upbeat if naive charmer who convinces his friends Anthony… More A bright, optimistic caper comedy from first-time director Wes Anderson, Bottle Rocket focuses on a group of young Texans aspiring to become master thieves. Their leader is Dignan (Owen C. Wilson, who also co-wrote the screenplay), an upbeat if naive charmer who convinces his friends Anthony (Wilson's brother Luke Wilson) and Bob Mapplethorpe (Robert Musgrave) to enter the crime business. After their first heist, a bizarrely-executed robbery of a local bookstore, the trio goes on the lam, taking up residence in a border hotel where Anthony falls in love with a maid played by Lumi Cavazos. When the three buddies decide that they need to return to the real world, they hook up with a master con-man (James Caan) who sends them on a daring -- if ill-concieved -- mission. ~ Jason Ankeny, Rovi

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Rating, Runtime: R, 1 hr. 45 min.
Directed By: Wes Anderson
Written By: Wes Anderson, Owen Wilson
Genres: Drama, Comedy

In Theaters: Feb 23, 1996 Wide
On DVD: Dec 22, 1998
Studio: Columbia Pictures

Critic Reviews

Joe Baltake, Sacramento Bee
Works on its own modest, limited terms and, despite the obvious fun involved, never feels self-indulgent.
Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times
I can't recommend the film -- it's too unwound and indulgent -- but I have a certain affection for it, and I'm looking forward to whatever Anderson and the Wilsons do next.
Janet Maslin, New York Times
A mildly facetious tone limits Anderson's film to the lightweight, but the collective enthusiasm behind this debut effort still comes through.
Mike Clark, USA Today
A little deal, this movie is like a bottle rocket itself: a big bang for the money.
Rita Kempley, Washington Post
Gets by on quirky charm and slacker chic -- but just barely.
James Berardinelli, ReelViews
Starts and finishes strong, but, somewhere in the middle, it loses its focus and its way.
Sandie Angulo Chen, Common Sense Media
The first Anderson/Wilson offbeat, talky comedy.
Matt Noller, Slant Magazine
While nowhere near the same level as Anderson's subsequent films, Bottle Rocket nonetheless provides a sweet, funny look at a young director finding his voice.
Matt Noller, Slant Magazine
If Bottle Rocket is to be remembered for anything in Anderson's body of work, it should be as the film that gave the director the power and name recognition to continue making the films he wanted to make.
Peter Canavese, Groucho Reviews
Though flawed, Bottle Rocket is full of buried treasures and holds up to repeated viewings, as any cult film should. [Criterion Blu-ray]
Dennis Schwartz, Ozus' World Movie Reviews
Owen Wilson is a riot as the mentally unbalanced inept middle-class thief.
Josh Larsen, Sun Publications (Chicago, IL)
...hysterical stuff, even if it only hints at the creative level Wilson and Anderson would reach next with Rushmore.
Pablo Villaca, Cinema em Cena
Apesar de perder o foco em seu segundo ato, conta com uma introdução divertida e, em seu terço final, traz um dos assaltos mais hilários do Cinema norte-americano.
Scott Weinberg, eFilmCritic.com
Dry, droll and really very funny.
Jon Niccum, Lawrence Journal-World
Anderson's first foray into style-over-substance comedies
Ken Hanke, Mountain Xpress (Asheville, NC)
Wes Anderson's first film -- and a fascinating indicator of what was to come.
Thomas Delapa, Boulder Weekly
One of the best films of 1996.

Read all 17 critic reviews

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Featured Audience Ratings

danny d

absolutely one of the most fun, quirky, unrealistic, hilarious films out there. wes andersons composition style, dialogue, shot selection, and attention to detail make him one of the best directors out there, and this chaotic film is an example of how bizarre something can be while… More
absolutely one of the most fun, quirky, unrealistic, hilarious films out there. wes andersons composition style, dialogue, shot selection, and attention to detail make him one of the best directors out there, and this chaotic film is an example of how bizarre something can be while being so intentional at the same time. i love this movie.
Kase V

Wes Anderson's 'Bottle Rocket' is a comedic caper with a unique style that Anderson will make his own as he continues to make more films. It's a great sign of what's to come, because the script is very well done and the Wilson brothers both turn in very good… More
Wes Anderson's 'Bottle Rocket' is a comedic caper with a unique style that Anderson will make his own as he continues to make more films. It's a great sign of what's to come, because the script is very well done and the Wilson brothers both turn in very good yet very different performances. Owen Wilson is a shock of a disheveled man and Luke is more collected and modest in his performance. The cinematography is also as good as ever, guided by Anderson's stylish and creative hand. The film may have pockets of mishaps where it may lose its audience, but the end result is satisfying. It's not laugh-out-loud funny, but its quirks and charm should impress and delight quite a few.
Tim S

As I've stated many times on Flixster, I'm a self-confessed Wes Anderson addict. He's the feel-good Stanley Kubrick for a new generation of filmmakers and holds his own despite the comparison. His movies are usually almost strictly about characters, and not necessarily… More
As I've stated many times on Flixster, I'm a self-confessed Wes Anderson addict. He's the feel-good Stanley Kubrick for a new generation of filmmakers and holds his own despite the comparison. His movies are usually almost strictly about characters, and not necessarily story resolution, which is his style. While Bottle Rocket is technically his first film, it's not necessarily my favorite. I think part of the reason I didn't respond to it as positively as I should is because of its lack of narrative. Actually, the narrative is a mess. There are so many moments in the movie that are usually the final moment of other movies, but it just keeps going. Now if the characters are interesting enough then that might not matter a whole lot, but in this case, they aren't very strong. They're probably the weakest characters in all of Wes Anderson's work. So while the story is going off in different directions, being chaotic and not quite sure which way to go we're supposed to be following these two brothers and the people they meet along their way... except none of them are all that interesting. Perhaps it's me, and perhaps I'm just asking too much. Either way, it's still a worthy film, but it just doesn't hold up to the quality, precision and perfection of Wes Anderson's later work.
paul o

Its fun, charming, and original! A great debut by director Wes Anderson and introducing the Wilson triplets. For any fan of indie hipster cinema, this is a treat!
Graham J

The debut from Wes Anderson is perhaps his most conventional comedy, though the more you watch it you realize how unconventional it is. Filled with hilarious qoutable dialogue and breakthrough performances by Owen and Luke Wilson. We get the first glimpse of a unique director's… More
The debut from Wes Anderson is perhaps his most conventional comedy, though the more you watch it you realize how unconventional it is. Filled with hilarious qoutable dialogue and breakthrough performances by Owen and Luke Wilson. We get the first glimpse of a unique director's style and his ear for picking great music.
KJ P

This little independent thriller/comedy, knows it's value and what it is trying to accomplish, and it does it with great style. As two brothers (one out of an insane asylum) round up a team to make robberies on the down low (in convenience stores and factories), one of them (Luke… More
This little independent thriller/comedy, knows it's value and what it is trying to accomplish, and it does it with great style. As two brothers (one out of an insane asylum) round up a team to make robberies on the down low (in convenience stores and factories), one of them (Luke Wilson) let's his emotions take over one night as they stay in a motel and he falls for the housemaid. This film is comical, dramatic, it has a good witty story, the acting is very fun to watch, and the dialogue may be lazy, but it just makes the film that much more funny. Bottle Rocket is one of those films that you may love the first time around, but you know it's not amazing and you will never take a second look. I had a lot of fun watching it for what it was! Very, very good!
Lorenzo v

"On the run from Johnny Law... ain't no trip to Cleveland." Focusing on a trio of friends and their elaborate plan to pull off a simple robbery and go on the run. <center>"On the run from Johnny Law... ain't no trip to Cleveland." Focusing on a trio of friends and their elaborate plan to pull off a simple robbery and go on the run. <center>REVIEW</center> 1996's Bottle Rocket stands out as the arresting debut of director Wes Anderson, along with ongoing writing partner Owen Wilson. It immediately engages its audience in the ridiculous story of Dignan (Owen Wilson) and Anthony (Luke Wilson), two friends that aren't any good at being criminals - although they aspire to be. They work alongside their friend Bob Mapplethorpe (Robert Musgrave) or rather trick him into helping them due to the fact that he can finance their operations. What's so interesting about this film is the true heart that started in the script and then continued to shine through with the actors' performances. The characters were developed deeply enough for the audience to truly get a sense of who they were, what they wanted, and where they were going. Although the film tells the story of a group of wannabe thieves, it becomes clear that the reason why they are no good at pulling off these crimes is simply because of the fact that they are actually really nice guys, incapable of actually hurting anyone. The most remarkable aspect of the film would have to be in the brilliant performances featured throughout. Owen Wilson truly shines as Dignan, the group's leader - desperate to pull off at least one fantastic heist. He is hot-tempered, controlling, and he often lets his emotions get the best of him. Although he may screw up a lot, he is always quick to apologize. At the end of the film when he is sentenced to serve time, he claims to have no hard feelings showing a real growth in his character. Another standout performance came from Luke Wilson as Dignan's best friend Anthony. It's obvious that Anthony doesn't want to be a criminal, and that he simply participates because he doesn't want to make Dignan unhappy. After he falls in love with one of the maids at a motel they stay at, he realizes he can't work with Dignan anymore. Wilson's performance was outstanding - he was really able to convey both his character's indifferent side, and also being torn between love and friendship. Bottle Rocket was an outstanding debut achievement for director Wes Anderson, marking the beginning of a series of stunning films full of character driven scripts, great music, and aesthetically pleasing visuals.
Chris W

This movie, like its main characters, is aimless and meandering, but still very much fun, funny, and entertaining. I mean, any movie that put the Wilson brothers and Wes Anderson has to be at least half way decent, right? The story is simple enough, but the dead pan humor, score,… More
This movie, like its main characters, is aimless and meandering, but still very much fun, funny, and entertaining. I mean, any movie that put the Wilson brothers and Wes Anderson has to be at least half way decent, right? The story is simple enough, but the dead pan humor, score, location shooting, and general quirkiness make it recommendable. There's something about the charm coming off this movie that makes it irresistable.
James A

Had I watched this before Anderson's other films I may have liked it more. While I still enjoyed it it was a lesser version of his better movies.
Jennifer D

Wow. All THREE Wilson brothers were in this movie. Even Andrew Wilson, who looks and sounds like Owen. I loved this quirky comedy AND actually REALLY enjoyed Owen Wilson, not just Luke. Now that is truly a first, people. A great little independent film that was so geeky and funny that… More
Wow. All THREE Wilson brothers were in this movie. Even Andrew Wilson, who looks and sounds like Owen. I loved this quirky comedy AND actually REALLY enjoyed Owen Wilson, not just Luke. Now that is truly a first, people. A great little independent film that was so geeky and funny that it was adorably realistic. Love it. Wes Anderson, you are growing on me, sir.
Conner R

Wes Anderson's first movie and a great one at that. It is a refreshing comedy that is completely unique. The story is outrageous, but played so deadpan and serious that it's even funnier. Owen Wilson is priceless and has absolutely no idea that he has the thief skills of a… More
Wes Anderson's first movie and a great one at that. It is a refreshing comedy that is completely unique. The story is outrageous, but played so deadpan and serious that it's even funnier. Owen Wilson is priceless and has absolutely no idea that he has the thief skills of a four year old with a set of crayolas. Luke Wilson also did a great job working as the straight man and playing off his brother quite well.
Randy T

Overly polite white guys aspire (unsuccessfully) to be criminal masterminds. Director Wes Anderson skews the flow of the film just enough to keep it slightly off-center thus avoiding all the cliches that normally accompany such films. Add to that the witty, sometimes hilarious,… More
Overly polite white guys aspire (unsuccessfully) to be criminal masterminds. Director Wes Anderson skews the flow of the film just enough to keep it slightly off-center thus avoiding all the cliches that normally accompany such films. Add to that the witty, sometimes hilarious, performances from brothers Luke and Owen Wilson and you've got a movie that is definitely worth seeing.
Dan S

An original, low-key comedy that features a brilliantly put-together finale and a couple of memorable performances from Owen and Luke Wilson. The acting is surprisingly excellent (even Luke Wilson!), sometimes the film gets a little carried away with scenes that cry "look how… More
An original, low-key comedy that features a brilliantly put-together finale and a couple of memorable performances from Owen and Luke Wilson. The acting is surprisingly excellent (even Luke Wilson!), sometimes the film gets a little carried away with scenes that cry "look how offbeat we are!", but for the most part this is a well done movie. The ending is hilarious in many aspects, it's one of the smartest and cleverest I've seen in a comedy.
Anthony L

Wes Anderson's first film is brilliant. His direction isn't quite to the same level as his more recent films but its interesting to see how his style evolves. Its the performances that make this film really great though, Owen Wilson has never been better in my opinion. An… More
Wes Anderson's first film is brilliant. His direction isn't quite to the same level as his more recent films but its interesting to see how his style evolves. Its the performances that make this film really great though, Owen Wilson has never been better in my opinion. An under rated, over looked classic.
Eric S

Luke and Owen Wilson shine in this comical yet mesmerizing film about three friends sharing dreams of the lives they wish they had. One has an epiphany about what he wants in life which he finds in the last place he'd think to look, while the other is fixated on distinguishing… More
Luke and Owen Wilson shine in this comical yet mesmerizing film about three friends sharing dreams of the lives they wish they had. One has an epiphany about what he wants in life which he finds in the last place he'd think to look, while the other is fixated on distinguishing himself in the world of crime. Brilliant score featuring songs by the band Love which is a band that deserves more recognition and appreciation than they've received.
Jani H

"His out. You're out, too. And I don't think I'm in either." Wes Anderson has always been a favourite of mine and now, after watching his debut feature, I've finally watched each and every one of his films. "Bottle Rocket" is based on his same… More
"His out. You're out, too. And I don't think I'm in either." Wes Anderson has always been a favourite of mine and now, after watching his debut feature, I've finally watched each and every one of his films. "Bottle Rocket" is based on his same titled short film. Written by Owen Wilson and Wes Anderson, the film was initially planned to have well known actors but Anderson decided to go with the Wilson brothers, Owen and Luke. Both of 'em made their first acting roles in a feature film. The film will probably not be enjoyed by all. I liked the film very much but the inexperience of both Anderson and the, at that time, amateur actors can be seen. The story develops nicely, although it does seem a bit out of focus at times. Some really entertaining acts are featured here, especially the final scenes involving a heist that goes totally berserk. Wes Anderson is today one of the most talented indie filmmakers. He's line of work is something that some may find hard to enjoy. "Bottle Rocket" was a fun ride for me and also another type of enjoyment was to watch Owen Wilson develop into the actor that many film buffs admire. For those who decide to watch this will surely have a nice 90 minutes ahead of them. And fans of the filmmakers will love it!
Aaron N

Dignan: They'll never catch me... because I'm fucking innocent. Every time I watch this movie, it gets funnier. It has such a quirky sense of humor about things and the Wilson brothers have such a likable innocence about them. The premise is very simple, Three guys, who… More
Dignan: They'll never catch me... because I'm fucking innocent. Every time I watch this movie, it gets funnier. It has such a quirky sense of humor about things and the Wilson brothers have such a likable innocence about them. The premise is very simple, Three guys, who have no aim in life, dream of becoming criminals, for no real reason. Owen and Luke Wilson star, in Wes Anderson's first movie which plays a lot like an inside joke that only so many can get, but if you do get it, and see it more and more, it just seems to become funnier. Luke Wilson starts the film leaving a voluntary mental hospital, and is a generally nice guy who just needs direction. Anthony: One morning, over at Elizabeth's beach house, she asked me if I'd rather go water-skiing or lay out. And I realized that not only did I not want to answer THAT question, but I never wanted to answer another water-sports question, or see any of these people again for the rest of my life. Owen Wilson is a guy who has all the confidence in the world, but no idea how to do anything. Dignan: Here are just a few of the key ingredients: dynamite, pole vaulting, laughing gas, choppers - can you see how incredible this is going to be? - hang gliding, come on! Together with another friend Bob, who is dominated by his bullying brother, they pull off a small heist and try to live lives on the run. During this time the boys stay at a motel in the middle of nowhere, and Luke Wilson's character forms a relationship with one of the housekeepers. Eventually the boys become involved with James Caan's character, Mr. Henry, who is also in on the joke of this movie, so he makes things work, and has a few lines of dialogue in particular that are too funny to reveal. Wes Anderson's style is apparent here, by way of the soundtrack, quirky humor, and attention to detail that makes his other movies good as well. This is a good, fun, cult movie that can be understandingly polarizing for audiences, but hey...I get it, and I like it. Bob: Wha - why is there tape on your nose? Dignan: Exactly!
Alice S

Pretty funny but a little bit too much improbable cutting up of dialogue into different locations.
Tim S

If it's good enough for Marty, it's good enough for me. I was probably more impressed with Owen Wilson (who has still not given a better performance than in this movie...well...maybe Zoolander) than Wes Anderson. Also, this features one of the greatest names for a character… More
If it's good enough for Marty, it's good enough for me. I was probably more impressed with Owen Wilson (who has still not given a better performance than in this movie...well...maybe Zoolander) than Wes Anderson. Also, this features one of the greatest names for a character of all time: Futureman.
Ken S

I don't understand the hype surrounding this film.