Coraline, adapted from the Neil Gaiman book of the same name and LAIKA studio’s first feature film, has returned to cinema’s for it’s 15th anniversary in newly remastered 3D.
Cult following
Coraline follows the story of eleven-year-old Coraline Jones who discovers an enticing alternate reality behind a secret door in her new house, unaware that what lies within isn’t as enchanting as it seems.
The film has garnered a cult following in it’s 15 years and LAIKA has produced many successful films such as Paranorman and their critical, but not so much commercial, Missing Link which won Best Animated Feature Film at the Oscars. While the film has been re-released over the years, this is the biggest one so far. And it returns with an important element of the film; 3D.
3D effects
Coraline was the first ever stop-motion animated film to be conceived and photographed in Stereoscopic 3D. The film has often been praised for its creative use of 3D and as being one of the best examples of the format done correctly.
The 3D really expands upon the film, which is already fantastical in its 2D format. It opens up the world of the film, with places like the garden in the Other World feeling so much bigger and more lived in and the tunnel Coraline crawls through to get there expansive and seemingly without end. It’s a very nuanced use of 3D effects and doesn’t feel gimmicky or cheap.
However, there is the occasional image that pops right out at you; the Other Father’s piano hands or Bobinsky scenes to name a couple. The sparse usage of this effect makes it more exciting and the audience does not grow accustomed to it, so when the Other Mother is suddenly inches from your face it’s a lot more terrifying.
The film itself has lost none of its effectiveness and is still the perfect entry-level horror. It’s a mix of colourful environments, crazy characters and gorgeous music craft a world you will want to revisit again and again.
Featured Image Credit: LAIKA Studios
He/Him
Arts Editor 24/25
Press email: arts@brignews.com
