“Coraline” is a 2009 claymated film adaptation of Neil Gamen’s novel of the same title. The film follows young Coraline Jones as she seeks to explore the boundaries of her dull and quiet life. When she and her parents move into a new apartment, Coraline discovers an alternate universe version of her life. There, she is greeted by her “Other mother” and “Other father” who look just like her actual parents, only with buttons for eyes and ulterior motives. Coraline finds the alternate world to be exciting and curious, if not a little unnerving.
After a few visits, it becomes clear that the “Other mother’s” intention is to keep Coraline in the “Other world” forever, cutting her off from her old life and family. When Coraline refuses, the “Other mother’s” world begins to unravel, revealing the web of lies she had spun to maintain the illusion of the perfect life Coraline might have led had she stayed. As Coraline fights to leave the “Other world” permanently, she learns to be grateful for her real parents and the life she already led. Despite its petrifying plot and creepy characters, this film was made to reach young audiences as they explore the boundaries of their own lives and learn the value of family and loyalty.
From the captivating characters, life lessons, craftsmanship, and cinematography, “Coraline” combines old-fashioned stop-motion animation techniques with the new wonders of modern 3-D, creating one of the most unique and interesting films I’ve seen. Every single piece of the movie, from the characters, to the buildings, to the set was made completely by hand.
From the captivating characters, life lessons, craftsmanship, and cinematography, “Coraline” is one of the most unique and interesting films I have seen.