ParaNorman

Really good watch, could watch again, and can recommend. This is surprisingly dark, and underrated. While the animated characters are almost grosteque in their stylization, it serves fairly well when it comes to the undead. It also pushes the boundaries of it being a "kid's" movie or an "adult's" movie in it's content. So this is probably a movie for "older younger" audiences. Not only is this a great concept, effect execution, and story, the characters that do pop, really do. I honestly could have done without a few of them, but most of the important characters work for what they need to do. There is a much appreciated "twist" that examples some self-aware story telling that comes with the tropes typically involved with "I see dead people" stories. Its really rather refreshing without removing the idea that burning witches at the stake was an atrocity in history. The story is touching and charming and just requires an open mind, which is part of the message of the story.

His parents think he's a bit bonkers, but "Norman" swears that he can communicate with his deceased grandmother (especially when she wants the central heating turned up!). When his uncle tells him that his unique skills might help with a ritual that could spare their sleepy town from a curse, he agrees to help - but oops! Next thing, the place is awash with zombies and it falls to "Norman" to figure out just what originally caused the curse and to find a way - together with his popular sister and his new found, and rather unlikely, friends - to annul it before it is too late! This is a fun family adventure with some strong characterisations (including the really enthusiastic voice talent of Kodi Smit-McPhee in the title role) and some superbly detailed stop motion animation. The writing is frequently quite pithy with plenty for the grown ups to smile at, and think about, as the story progresses. Though hardly original - the story itself has everything from "Salem's Lot" (1979) to "Hocus Pocus" (1993) running through it - it's still an enjoyable watch that lends itself well to a big screen to better appreciate the colourful vivacity of the creative artistry and lively Jon Brian score. Sure, their heads are bigger than the rest of their bodes combined, but the facial expressions are what makes this and I rather liked this film.