And yet Hass’s piece also includes a coded journalistic reference to Rudin’s next two adult-themed films, Closer and the Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. “Whether Closer, with its searing look at relationships and adultery, or the zany Aquatic, directed by Wes Anderson and starring Bill Murray, will combine emotional depth with box-office magic remains to be seen.” The meaning of the phrase “remains to be seen” is New York Times-ese for “they don’t quite hit the mark.” I’m not saying this is the case (and I hope it’s not), but I know all about namby-pamby Times tippy-toeing.
