Elevator Frame

Wes Anderson set a carefully illustrated scene of tension, friendship, and conflict in one frame. The frame shows Max and Blume together in a small elevator compartment reflecting on the past and contemplating the future. Color is very important in this scene as there are four distinct colors associated with the characters: yellow, white, grayish blue, and dull green. One color, yellow, is shared among both characters. Yellow is in both of their clothing and is the color of the flower boutique. In this scene yellow represents something both Max and Blume have in common, and that would be Miss Cross. The placing of the flowers in between them symbolizes a connection of love for her that they both share. However the white and blue towels on either side show difference. White, often times associated with purity, is on Max's side; the darker shade of color on Herman's side is lost and can not be defined, much like Herman. The dull green color of the elevator car is representative of the overall atmosphere and mood of the situation: no life and no shine. Because the camera angle is at eye level and in close focus, we can see both characters' body placement and facial expressions; they tell two very different tales. Since their fighting for Miss Cross has ended it is apparent from how both characters look that they have fared very differently. Although Max has his head down and is indicating slight depression, he seems to be in good shape. He is standing with straight posture and his face looks to be clean shaven. Blume, on the other hand, looks to be in awful shape. His body is tilted to one side and he doesn't seem to be able to stand up straight. His hair is messy and face scrubby. No part of his appearance indicates that he seems to care much about life anymore. He subtly states, "I'm kind of lonely these days"(IMSDb). An understatement to how he's really feeling based on his appearance in the frame. This scene in Rushmore represents journeys, moving forward and looking back. An object that would fit well in the frame would be Holden's suitcases from "Catcher in the Rye" as it likewise represents journey.