‘Coraline” is that rare creation, a wonderfully executed family film … if it weren’t so consistently creepy it would be ideal for viewers of all ages.
How creepy? It’s more unnerving than the recent “Friday the 13th” reboot – what with the leathery images, the soulless button eyes and the creature who tries to…. well, let’s not give too much away.
Fine vocal performance, including one from Teri Hatcher as Coraline’s mother and “Other Mother,” flesh out this compelling fantasy.
Dakota Fanning voices Coraline, a you go, girl type dealing with two very buzz kill parents who just uprooted the family and moved to Oregon. She finds a hidden door in their new house that leads to another world, one very much like her own with one big difference – her parents are cool and accommodating in it.
Sounds perfect, but Coraline soon realizes there’s something not quite right about her “new” mother and father, and she could be in danger if she decides to stay with them permanently.
It’s nearly impossible to shock audiences today with animation. We’ve seen so many wonderful images, been witness to astounding visual treats, but there’s something about what transpires in “Coraline” that is unique. The inventive camera angles, the sharp animation, the wildly imaginative characters … they all weave together into one cohesive vision, and it’s one viewers won’t forget.
The supporting characters deliver chills and personality, from the pestering Wybie to a cat who knows far more than it lets on. We’re not forced to sit through those wacky action sequences even the best CGI fare squeeze in today.
There’s not a wasted moment in the film.
“Coraline” should still be family appropriate, but only for kiddies with steel spines who watch it with their parents.
(Photo: Dakota Fanning voices “Coraline,” the main character in director Henry Selick’s new film/Focus Features)
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
My husband and I loved this movie.. I was amazed at the amount of closeups in the film, definitely not afraid to show the stop motion parts up close.
Watched it in 3D and it was just beautiful. My favorite film this year so far.
i like the movie but to tall you the truth it is a little beat scary so waht i think is it is not good for kids .