041ANIMATION columnist Faziela Harris-Davies looks into the world of stop-motion animation and reviews some of the most well-loved movies in this genre.
AS technology progresses over the years, animators have been able to incorporate new design techniques to bring you stories of wonder. However, one particular design technique has not only grown in its authentic look, but it is now able to be incorporated with digital designing allowing for a high-end product that leaves you completely captivated by the story.
Stop motion is a filmmaking technique using puppet animation while individually photographing movements in small increments, and then putting these images together will create a series of motions if done correctly. Each puppet is then masterfully crafted in terms of facial expressions and range of motion to create a full-feature film.Â
Let’s delve into some of my favourite stop-motion films of all time.
Kubo & the Two Strings
Young Kubo’s peaceful existence comes crashing down when he accidentally summons a vengeful spirit from the past. Now on the run, Kubo joins forces with Monkey and Beetle to unlock a secret legacy. Armed with a magical instrument, Kubo must battle the Moon King (Ralph Fiennes) and other gods and monsters to save his family and solve the mystery of his fallen father, the greatest samurai warrior the world has ever known.
This is one of my all-time favourite stop motion films in that the scale of the puppets is enormous in real life, LAIKA really emphasised the story in the vibrant colours and score chosen for the film. This one is a definite watch.
The Little Prince
The Aviator introduces a girl to a world where she rediscovers her childhood and learns that it’s human connections that matter most and that it is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.
Based on the book written by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the Little Prince is a story that really proves how important it is to allow a child to grow up in wonder. As a parent, you often feel the need to ensure a perfect academic child but forget to actually allow that child to live their life as a child should.
Coraline
While exploring her new home, a girl named Coraline discovers a secret door, behind which lies an alternate world that closely mirrors her own but, in many ways, is better. She rejoices in her discovery until the Other Mother and the rest of her parallel family try to keep her there forever. Coraline must use all her resources and bravery to make it back to her own family and life.
A bit darker than the other two recommendations, Coraline still has me captivated to this day. The ever-changing landscape of the different worlds followed by the eccentric characters, it’s a kaleidoscope before your eyes. The button scene haunts me to this day, and I am still finding out more hidden clues throughout the movie. Especially the opening scene, it’s a lot more macabre than you realize.
Corpse Bride
Victor and Victoria’s families have arranged their marriage. Though they like each other, Victor is nervous about the ceremony. While he’s in a forest practising his lines for the wedding, a tree branch becomes a hand that drags him to the land of the dead. It belongs to Emily, who was murdered after eloping with her love and wants to marry Victor. Victor must get back aboveground before Victoria marries the villainous Barkis Bittern.
It would be completely remiss of me not to have a single Tim Burton movie on this list, so here we have the instalment you have all been waiting for. Twisted and gloomy, the characters are sullen and yet, you love the beauty behind the corpse bride as the movie progresses.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
The film follows the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown’s beloved pumpkin king, who has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the “real world.” When Jack accidentally stumbles on Christmastown, all bright colours and warm spirits, he gets a new lease on life — he plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. But Jack soon discovers even the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton men can go seriously awry.
I absolutely love Halloween and expected nothing less when watching this film, but it is full of heart. Even the dark and spooky characters are lovable in their own unique way. Jack Skellington will have you wondering whether he is the villain or the hero the entire movie.
Some honourable mentions that you can check out this weekend
- James & The Giant Peach
- Chicken Run
This style is so unique, with endless hours dedicated to each movement, it truly is an art if you are able to master it.
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