Coraline 3D
Starring the voices of Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, and Ian McShane
Directed by Henry Selick (The Nightmare Before Christmas)
Rated PG for thematic elements, scary images, some language and suggestive humor
Appropriate for ages 10+
Young Coraline has just moved to a new town and due to her parents busy work schedules, her only fun is to explore the old home and nearby surroundings. One night she finds a crawl space in her home that leads her to an alternate universe where everything is opposite: her mom and dad don’t work, but rather dote on her, and instead of a drab home with weird neighbors, she discovers a magical world unlike anything she has ever seen. Unfortunately, this world comes with a cost, and if she wants to stay there, she must completely give up her old reality for something she doesn’t quite trust.
Using the same animation style of The Nightmare Before Christmas, Coraline takes this animation art style to a new level. The film is breathtakingly beautiful and is made even more incredible by the 3D technology employed. The images would have popped off the screen without the glasses, but with the glasses, the audience is in for a big treat.
As for the story, its success lies more in its weirdness than its compelling narrative. From start to finish, this is one strange little film that keeps you on your toes. While I wasn’t moved by the tale, I did get excited by its creativity. Overall, this weirdness makes the film a very interesting and enjoyable movie experience.
I will say that it might be too scary for some small children and many parents will be uncomfortable with the overall theme. A-