It was not bleak, in my opinion. Despite the comedic aspects, quite subdued. Yes, definitely check it out.

I look forward to your thoughts!

And, yeah, Fantastic Mr Fox is great. In my current Wes Anderson binge, I need to see it back to back with Isle of Dogs.

Oh, the disappointment thing. That was probably just me. But I continue to think Isle of Dogs is a dense film; two viewings at a minimum. Both to properly get the story (a lot of flashbacks) and the sheer level of detail involved. Also, because this is a Wes Anderson gig, it's an ensemble performance - but Bryan Cranston grounds the film. He brings the Walter White to the character of Chief. It verges on Shakespearean.

@Palindromeman I have completed first viewing. I enjoyed the different forms of humor, the story, visuals and the expanded diversity in characters thanks in part to such recognizable voices. Bryan Cranston was terrific as a lead but my favorites were Harvey Keitel and Jeff Goldblum. Some scenes reminded me of Wall*E and The Grand Budapest Hotel. I will go see again so I can discover any gems I missed the first time as well as pick up more on the meaning and messaging (I’m staying as vague as possible so not to give anything away). The first scene when Atari arrives on the isle was my absolute favorite visually. Another title I will come back to over and over every few months just to marvel at the creative genius of Wes Anderson.

@LaMariposa Cool (I have just booked my third viewing tomorrow night).

Whilst it is an ensemble performance, I think Cranston carries it. Both in terms of Chief's journey and the fact that I just could not stop hearing Walter White growling

Yes to Keitel and the Blum, and I think Ed Norton really did a great job. As did Bill Murray - naturally.

Isle of Dogs is such a consummate Wes Anderson film - the visuals are so him.

I also love the fact that the Japanese characters spoke Japanese - without subtitles. I had no idea what they were saying. And yet I did, intuitively. Except, of course, when Atari calls "mayday, mayday".

And the litter sequence with Peppermint - I admit I got misty. It must have been something in my eye.

@Palindromeman A great film indeed! Thanks for conversing with me about it!

@LaMariposa And speaking of Cranston, you must check out Last Flag Flying. He is brilliant in that.