A Slice of Coraline

 

First of all, I love stop-motion animation. Secondly, I love Tim Burton and will see pretty much any movie he is involved in. This time, Henry Selick took the directors role again to create another classic. Ever since I was a little 7-year-old captivated and equally frightened by The Nightmare Before Christmas, I have loved these films. These films create a style like none other made for any age group. In this latest installment, he doesn't disappoint. Coraline is the story of a young girl who is bored by her simple life and leaves her wanting something more. The story line of Coraline keeps you engaged from the first frame to the last credit. As for the animation, it was nothing short of amazing. The simplest movement of a small flower opening its petals keeps me glued to the screen. 

The story seems a sweet, simple, and innocent one until you see it's dark side creeping through in subtle ways. The shadow of a black cat, a button-eyed doll, or the eccentric neighbors make you soon realize that this is not just going to be a cheerful, cutesy film. This, of course, is the beauty of Tim Burton and Co.'s animation films and the main reason I am (and so many) so attracted to these films.  

The characters of the film are classic, odd, and just plain creepy at times, but I loved them all. Especially the Eastern European acrobatic neighbor, Mr. Bobinsky, who bounds around the house, circus style in an eccentric, but elegant manor. All the characters are special and crazy in their own right and bring a great deal to the film.

 Something else that made this viewing special was the 3-D version we happened to see. It just happened that this was the version playing closest to us, but I am glad. The 3-D effect was like icing on the slice of Coraline cake, but I have no doubt that the original version is just as good. The effects give it an added entertainment factor, especially for small children in the audience.

All in all, Coraline keeps you entertained with great animation, sound/music, and creativity. How could it be better?? I don't know, but there is always room for improvement! 8 out of 10 

Slice: Black Forest Cake with a colorful marzipan icing