Wes Anderson had made two movies, Bottle Rocket and Rushmore, at the time The Royal Tenenbaums was released. These films had already established him as a singular and unique voice in cinema, known for his deadpan humor, evocative visuals, and the quirky atmospheres of his films. The Royal Tenenbaums marked not only Anderson's third film, but also his third writing collaboration with friend and actor, Owen Wilson. The plot of the film was inspired by Anderson's own parents' divorce, although the plot of the movie diverged considerably from his own experience.
Against Gene Hackman's wishes, Wes Anderson wrote the part of Royal Tenenbaum with the veteran actor in mind. Hackman apparently wanted nothing to do with the film, but was convinced by his agent to take the role. In spite of his difficult antics on set, Hackman won the Golden Globe for Best Actor for his work in the film. Anderson shot the film in New York City, but fictionalized many of the places and famous landmarks, never showing any iconically recognizable locations.
Upon its release, the film was widely praised, and at the time became Anderson's highest grossing film at the box office (surpassed by The Grand Budapest Hotel in 2014). Critics praised its signature aesthetic and Wes Anderson's directorial vision. The screenplay was nominated for an Academy Award.
