Coraline

Coraline [Motion picture] 2009, ISBN 0061660167

This 2009 film adaptation of the popular 2002 novel of the same title is a creative, fascinating version of a compelling story.  Coraline is a 12-year-old girl in a new town and a new house waiting to begin a new school year.  With no playmates yet, she turns to her parents for company, but they are buried in their respective jobs.  Coraline is left to explore their new neighbors—none of whom are of her generation—and her new home.  She gives in to temptation and explores a strange doorway that leads her to an alternate world with an “other mother” and “other father” who are utterly appealing in some ways (all the time and attention in the world!  whatever food Coraline would like!) and utterly freaky in others (buttons for eyes?  strange insect snacks?).  Coraline wants to return home to her preoccupied parents, but finds that is no longer an option.

Equal parts creepy and creative, this stop-motion animated film will engage young viewers and the adults who may watch it with them.  The lessons of the book—appreciating family, finding self-confidence in the face of fear, standing up for what is right—are conveyed as effectively in this film version as they are in the beloved book.  The subject matter is scary enough to keep older tweens entertained, but not so much so that younger viewers should not watch.  The title role is voiced by Dakota Fanning, an endearing portrayal of a curious, memorable character.

See a trailer here.