Why has Whit Stillman made so few movies? His filmography is great. Sure, it’s tailor made for someone like me, but I note that most of his (very modestly budgeted movies) seem to have done okay at the box office. His U.H.B (Urban Haute Bourgeoisie) trilogy (which Metropolitan kicks off) is unique. Each movie is special. His voice is distinctive. And he captures characters that no one has ever seen before.
I’d be hard pressed to choose a favorite, but Metropolitan is pretty great. It’s not a shock that Stillman later did Love & Friendship since his sensibility is distinctly Austenian. Funny, human, and kind to his characters, Stillman has a lot to say about our society and makes saying it funnier and more interesting than anyone else. (Criterion)