Coraline

Coraline
2009 - Focus Features
Directed By Henry Selik



SYNOPSIS

Coraline moves to a new apartment in a new town with her parents. She discovers a small door that's a portal to an alternate universe, complete with 'other parents.' Soon she finds her self trapped there and her 'other mother' is revealed to be far sinister than Coraline ever believed.



MY THOUGHTS

A dark children's tale is vividly brought to life for kids of all ages.

The film's dark, scary and sometimes nightmarish subject matter may not be for everyone. It is based on a novel from Neil Gaiman, and it is dark like most of his body of work. Coraline is frequently threatened by dark forces in the alternate universe, after she realizes her 'ideal' sitaution really isn't ideal at all.
The film's 'be careful what you wish for' theme is evident and may teach a lesson to the youngest, at least those who can handle the frightening imagery and darker plot elements.

The film's stop-motion animation is amazing. Director Henry Selik (best known for 'The Nightmare Before Christmas') even eclipses that film's outstanding animation. Stop-motion is definitely a nice change of pace from all the CGI animated films that are all the rage today, and you can tell the difference on screen.

The voice work is also well done and helps the film's overall atmosphere of the plot.

The film is an excellent kids movie, but the more disturbing scenes may frighten the youngest ones in the audience.