A Must-Watch for Teens and Adults, But Not for Little Ones - This Chilling Yet Thought-Provoking Film Tackles Tough Issues Like Parenting and Growing Up
add_circle Pros
- Engaging storyline that tackles tough issues like parenting and growing up
- Impressive stop-motion animation that still holds up today
- Well-developed characters that are both likable and relatable
- Themes that are perfect for teens and adults, but not for little kids
- A cult classic that's worth watching for fans of dark fantasy
- The movie's atmosphere is creepy and suspenseful, making it perfect for Halloween
- The story is both haunting and thought-provoking, leaving you with a lot to think about
- The animation is detailed and vibrant, making the movie a visual treat
remove_circle Cons
- Not suitable for little kids due to mature themes and scary scenes
- The movie's pace can be slow at times, which might bore some viewers
- Some scenes are quite intense and might be disturbing for sensitive viewers
- The movie's message can be open to interpretation, which might confuse some viewers
- The animation can be a bit dated compared to modern CGI
- The movie's themes might not be suitable for all audiences, so viewer discretion is advised
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Editor's Summary
I recently rewatched Coraline around Halloween to get in the spooky spirit, and I've got to say, it's still a wild ride. As an adult, I appreciated the darker themes and complex storyline, but I remember being too scared to finish it when I was 11. Now, I can see why it's a cult classic. The stop-motion animation is still impressive, and the characters are well-developed. If you're a fan of dark fantasy, you'll love this movie. Just don't watch it with your little ones - it's not suitable for kids. The movie's atmosphere is creepy and suspenseful, making it perfect for Halloween. The story is both haunting and thought-provoking, leaving you with a lot to think about. I love how the movie explores tough issues like parenting and growing up in a way that's both relatable and thought-provoking.
Specifications
Hello everyone!
I first discovered this movie back in 2009 when I didn't have a computer and watched DVDs instead. It was part of a collection, and that's where I found 'Coraline.'
I've always been drawn to the dark, mysterious, and supernatural, so I immediately started watching it, and the title already hinted at some pretty scary stuff. At the time, I was around 11 years old, and I have to admit that I couldn't finish it because it was just too spooky.
Years went by, and now, as an adult, I decided to rewatch this movie around Halloween to get into the spirit of things and experience some genuine fright.
Coraline
CoralineABOUT THE MOVIE:Title: Coraline;Runtime: 1 hour 40 minutes;Genre: animated film, fantasy;Age restriction: 6+;Year: 2008;Country: USA.Movies Description From Kinopoisk:
Coraline gets transported to another world hidden behind a secret door. This world is her alternative life, and everything is perfect – at first. But things take a dark turn when she realizes her real parents are in grave danger.
MY IMPRESSIONS:
First off, I have to disagree with the age restriction for this movie. While it's subjective, I think you need to be at least 10 years old to understand the movie's themes, and it's best suited for teenagers or adults.
CoralineAlso, the movie might be too scary for young kids, and I'm not sure if their fragile psyches can handle it. After watching it, you might have some nightmares.
Coraline
CoralineThis stop-motion animated film is based on the novella Coraline by Neil Gaiman. I read the book in university and was completely blown away. While the film does have some minor deviations from the original source material, they're not significant enough to ruin the overall experience. That makes it even more engaging to watch.
CoralineLet's meet the main characters.Coraline JonesCoraline is the main protagonist - a girl who feels neglected by her parents. They're always busy with work and can't spend enough time with her. One day, she finds herself in a different world and meets her 'other mother'. This encounter fills her with a new feeling - love and care.
CoralineI'll be honest, I didn't like Coraline at first glance. She seems mean and rough. I get that in tough situations not everyone can stay kind and genuine, but sometimes her behavior annoyed me.
CoralineHowever, despite all the challenges, this girl has incredible courage, spirit, and resourcefulness. She overcomes every obstacle, never giving up in the face of challenges.
CoralineInteresting fact: in the film, Coraline's raincoat is yellow, whereas in the original it was blue.
CoralineWybie LovatWybie is the only boy Coraline interacts with - her so-called friend who lives next door. He's quite unusual and often scares Coraline. To make matters worse, he's the grandson of the owner of the Pink Palace Apartments, where Coraline and her parents moved to. Despite his strange behavior, Wybie proves to be very helpful and saves Coraline on more than one occasion.
Coraline in the Land of DreamsOne thing that caught my attention is that this character wasn't in the book. He was introduced in the movie so Coraline could talk to someone other than herself. This makes the movie even creepier, especially since the original book made Coraline even more isolated.
Coraline in the Land of DreamsCatI have to say, the cat is the most enigmatic character in the movie. He can talk and move between worlds. You never know what to expect from him because he keeps his thoughts to himself and acts suspiciously.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsThe Other MotherI have to admit, my favorite character is the Other Mother, the main antagonist. Maybe it's because villains in fairy tales often have more charm.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsThis character is the complete opposite of Coraline's real mother. Unlike her, she genuinely loves and cares for Coraline. Although, it's probably more accurate to say she's trying to win her over. However, her button-like eyes give me an unsettling feeling.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsThere were other characters, but it's better to watch the movie and form your own opinions.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsNow let's talk about the positive aspects of the animated film.VisualsI've got to say, the first and most noticeable plus is the film's beauty and detail. People often think the characters are made of clay, but they're actually puppets with thousands of removable masks that bring them to life. The four-year production process was definitely worth it.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsAtmosphereThe film masterfully creates an atmosphere using visual and sound effects. In the real world, everything looks gray and dull, which highlights Coraline's perception of her reality.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsMeanwhile, the other world is full of colors and strange images.
Coraline in the Land of DreamsBut we sense a subtle tension coming from the main character when she's in this world.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsThe film leaves a haunting and unsettling impression. I think it's perfect for watching on a chilly autumn evening.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsPlotNow, let's talk about the plot. Specifically, I want to discuss Coraline's relationship with her parents. As I mentioned earlier, the girl has a pretty strained relationship with her family because they're always busy with work and don't give her much attention. This makes Coraline become irritable and feel lonely. She's forced to find entertainment in some pretty sketchy places.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsEven when Coraline gets hurt, it seems like her parents just don't care. Now, I get that they have to work hard to provide for her, but that's no excuse for their indifference. I think every parent can spare at least a minute a day for their kid.
Coraline in the Land of DreamsIn this other world, things were totally different. The 'other' mom took Coraline in, cared for her, cooked dinner, and chatted with her. That's exactly what the main character was missing.
Coraline in the Land of Dreams
Coraline in the Land of DreamsCoraline was initially wary of the 'other' mom and everything that was happening, but she eventually relaxed and had a great time. All she needed was a little attention, and even the buttons on the 'other' parents' eyes didn't seem so scary anymore.
Coraline in the Land of DreamsThis movie has a deep meaning that will benefit every adult. It teaches us not to ignore our kids' stories and their existence in general.
CoralineI remember feeling like an outsider as a kid, like I was invisible to the people around me. That's a tough spot to be in, and I think a lot of kids can relate. I've seen it happen with friends who feel like their parents just don't get them, and they start to crave attention from anyone who will give it to them - even if it's not always good attention.
Coraline
CoralineThe thing is, relationships between kids and parents are always going to be complicated. But I think it's great that this movie shows how easy it can be to get a kid's attention by giving them what they want - even if it's not what they need. It's a tough lesson to learn, but it's an important one.
Coraline
CoralineTHE VERDICT:I think this movie is a real standout. It's not your typical scary kid's movie - it's more of a thought-provoking story that'll make you think.