Coraline

2009

Director: Henry Selick

Distributor: Focus Features

Key Elements: Story – Message – Concept - Symbolism – Music – Visual

Review:

Based on the novel by Neil Gaiman, Coraline tells the story of a girl bored and lonely and disappointed with the turn her life was taken. But then, she finds a mysterious door and, following it, finds herself in an exciting, fawning excessive parallel life. But the wonderful new place may not be as wonderful as it seems.

The movie is great at being at once creepy and mesmerizing. The visuals are definitely its strongest element.

But the story also has an important message – the things we think we want aren’t always what they seem – and if we’re not careful, we can become trapped by them.

Trailer:

Quotes:

• You are NOT my mother.
• You know, you could stay forever, if you want to. There's one tiny thing we have to do first...
• Be clever, Miss. Even if you win, she'll never let you go!

Stills: