The Initial Spark, Rekindled

Before Wes Anderson became a dollhousehold name, wallpapering his films with signature diorama decor, he sparked his directorial career with the short film-turned-feature, Bottle Rocket. It was created here, drafted over many Cosmic Cup meetings, a favorite collaboration spot for Anderson and the Wilson brothers. Cosmic was owned by Kumar Pallana, who went on to amplify Anderson’s films. We lost Pallana last month, but he’ll be honored Thursday when the USA Film Festival celebrates Bottle Rocket’s first screening (the fest ran the Anderson/Wilson short 20 years ago) in a combination special presentation. You’ll see both the early abbreviated version as well as its 1996-released feature-length edition at Texas Theatre (231 W. Jefferson Blvd.). It will all be preceded by a video clip tribute to Pallana, our favorite cinematic vaudevillian. Adding to the Anderson adoration is a special visit by former Observer film writer, early Wes-adopter and Pulitzer-nominated critic Matt Zoller Seitz. The New York-based talent does it all, and still found time while head-editing rogerebert.com and deconstructing television for New York Magazine and Vulture.com to author a stunning book on Anderson’s life and work, which will be available for purchase and autograph during the event. He’ll also take part in a Q&A with Robert Wilonsky, who apparently can unplug and stop blogging for short bursts of time. Who knew? Advanced tickets for the screening only are just $5. Add on the book (do, it’s beautiful) for a $30 ticket. Email [email protected] or call 214-821-6300 to reserve yours by November 6. Day of, use the ticket window. It opens at 5 for this 7 p.m. presentation. Visit thetexastheatre.com.
Thu., Nov. 7, 2013