The Life Aquatic, in the words of Roger Ebert, is the weirdest film; it's definitely not great, but it's certainly not bad. The movie has its fair share of laughs, but at its heart it's not really a comedy because there are serious themes (fatherhood, aging, love) that are explored. Ultimately, the film is a washout as a drama, but the comedic elements keep it interesting.

Bill Murray is strong as Steve Zissou; he is hampered somewhat by the writing, which can't quite get a bead on Steve. Steve is apparently a parody of Jacques Cousteau, which is an odd choice to parody due to his datedness (the movie might arguably be better as a period piece). Owen Wilson, as Ned (or Kingsley), is fine, but the role is not exactly a stretch. Cate Blanchett's reporter character is sketchy. The film gets most of its laughs from its supporting cast--Willem Dafoe's melodramatic aide-de-camp, Bud Cort's helpful bond company stooge, and Jeff Goldblum's part gay nemesis.

I guess my major problem with the film is that while it would be a fine surreal parody or a good comedy, at times it tries to do more and explore the issues I mentioned above. This does not work and that's what leaves The Life Aquatic just so...there.