Now, don't start trying to play the "you just didn't get it" card with me, for all of the metaphors registered perfectly well in my mind. No, my problem lies with the so-called story, that leaps all over the place and provides random flashbacks without a shred of explanation. If I can remember right, there are three brothers who board a train to India (but not before a strange and completely unnecessary cameo from Bill Murray) to find their mother, but only one of them knows that. The rest think that it's a bonding trip. Then, an Indian kid drowns, there's some weird subplot about their father's car, they dance around with feathers, their mom becomes a nun and there's some killer tiger on the loose. Strange, isn't it? I don't mind strange (see my review of "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind"), but this film just left me confused and kind of dazed. Not awful, just kind of pointless. Keep in mind some rather glorified drug use, mild language, and an implied sex scene.
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The Darjeeling Limited
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Is it age appropriate?
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Not age appropriate for kids under 15, age appropriate for kids over 17; suggested age 15. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Wes Anderson tackles mature brotherly baggage.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 15–17
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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What Parents Need to Know
About The Darjeeling Limited
Parents need to know that, like most Wes Anderson films, this quirky comedy deals with emotional baggage and relationships, which will probably bore younger teens (despite the presence of Wedding Crashers star Owen Wilson). The three protagonist brothers drink and share a love of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. There's a scene of peril when they try to save three young Indian boys from drowning. A dead child is shown, as is his Indian funeral fire. Suicide is briefly mentioned, and the death of a father is discussed on several occasions. There's one sex scene, although except for some passionate kissing, it's off screen. Language includes "f--k" and "s--t" but isn't incessant.
Read our full review by Sandie Angulo Chen
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about whether Wes Anderson's movies are funny, sad, or both. Why? How is his style of comedy different from other filmmakers'? How is this movie similar to and different from his other films? Some critics have complained that the film's second act, which takes place in a small Indian village, is offensive. What do you think about that part of the film? Is it appropriate, or is its tragedy out of place with the rest of the film?
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title iffy for age 13 and give itMy concerns are:
- Drinking, smoking, or drug use
What the heck was that?
- I rate this title on for age 17 and give it
The Darjeeling is limited
The fifth film of Wes Anderson, The Darjeeling Limited, recycles many of his commonly found woven themes - loss, family issues, longing, finding oneself, searching for answers, etc. Though it reflects strongly the melancholy artistic values we have come to expect from Mr. Anderson, I found The Darjeeling Limited to be the weakest of his efforts. All of the characters are shadows of performances previously seen in past Anderson films, especially, Owen Wilson's character which is simply an extension of his Bottle Rocket performance. Though it is refreshing to see him outside of his weak comedic performances, one has to wonder if Owen Wilson has any other dimensions as an actor. One can appreciate Bill Murray’s role as the traveling business man which has been rumored to be a father figure to the three brothers. Adrian Brody’s performance was exceptional and his transition into “Wes World†was seamless. The plot barely supports the film and this may be where Wes Anderson excels as a director. Like a train the film moves along on a preconceived track and once it leaves the confines of its rails the story also derails. This does not mean the story is weak but is subject to the whims and chaos that one would find themselves if subjected to a foreign country. The rescuing and failure to save three boys in a river is significant as it reflects the relationship of the brother’s. The first half of the film we see each brother conspiring against each other, never trusting, and never working together as three. It is always two against one. Only the acceptance of the dead boy’s family, the isolation of India and the rejection of their mother are the brothers able to unite, become one and find a new train so the story can continue. They catch their next ride by leaving their luggage and past behind them. The Darjeeling Limited tests the audience. The film really requires you to abandon all preconceived notions of traditional story. Films like these should be applauded and it is refreshing to see an artistic voice like Anderson’s survive. For fans of Wes Anderson the subtle nuances they have come to expect and enjoy will more than likely over compensate for the flaws found in this film. I mentioned earlier this film is weakest of Anderson’s work and I stand by that. With that being said I still enjoyed The Darjeeling Limited. If “Wes World†is not your cup of sweet lime you are welcome to get off at the next stop.
- I rate this title on for age 13 and give it
Quirky, funny -- but if you don't know who Wes Anderson is, skip it.
Kids over the age of 17 might enjoy the quirkiness and intelligence of this movie -- but a lot of it is going to be over their heads. Wes Anderson is a brilliant filmmaker, but if you're going to share his vision with kids, start with Rushmore.
- I rate this title off for age 17 and give it
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
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