Film Review: Coraline

We've got our eyes on this fantasy world. And, by golly, we're keeping them.

Director: Henry Selick
Studio: Focus Features
Rating: Marry

Last night, we saw Coraline and were downright floored we didn't have nightmares. This tale, spun by Sandman's creator Neil Gaiman, centers around Coraline, a fearless girl who travels down the proverbial rabbit hole and discovers a similar, but alternate, world where everything is happier, brighter, and better. Except for the part where everyone has buttons for eyes and maybe, just maybe, things aren't exactly what they seem.

Rad: With the help of Henry Selick (the stop motion animation genius behind The Nightmare Before Christmas), Gaiman's children's tale is brought to life in eye-popping detail. We're all for perfectly-executed CGI, but, because it's the norm these days, electing to create Coraline's world (including the brilliant garden, the frightening mother, and the winged Scottie Dogs) by hand feels more impressive and inspired. If the 3D version is playing near you, don't even consider seeing it in 2D.

Sad: We have to wait until next year to see Selick and production company Laika's new film Here Be Monsters. Hmph.

Want: This box created by the same brilliant hands who built the creatures of Coraline.