Coraline revisited

One of the most impressive things about Coraline is that nothing is random. Everything in the film has a purpose, from the design of each character and their facial expression to the unique design for each set and prop. For example, in the other world, at first it looks like a more exciting version of Coraline’s real life, slowly becomes more distorted and sinister, which coincides with Coraline’s growing discomfort. In addition, even Coraline’s knitted gloves and her outfits show the insane dedication to realism, adding the authenticity and real life feel that the film has. It’s the small, subtle details through the film that help to build tension and the audiences engagement.

The cinematography also makes the film way more intriguing for the audience. This is through the use of lighting and camera angles, especially in the Other World, creates a dreamlike, almost surreal atmosphere. Particularly, when Coraline first goes into the other world through the tiny door into the colourful tunnel. The contrast between the dull and beige colours of Coraline’s real life to the vibrant, almost too-perfect Other World also adds that deeper layer of meaning, showing how Coraline’s desires can be deceptive.

Overall, Coraline is a very visually appealing film where every detail is carefully crafted to enhance the story and the audiences’ engagement. The dedication to each and every detail in the movie especially with it being stop-motion makes a truly amazing film. I’d definitely recommend giving it a watch. 

Ashton Wallace

I’m Ashton Wallace, I am 17 years old and an A-Level Media Studies Student at Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College, I’m very passionate about film and media; regularly writing film reviews and articles for my college newspaper and the media studies Instagram page. I am currently applying to Media courses at university in the UK and the USA with my end goal to step foot in the Media industry whether that be in journalism or film.

We're showing Coraline at HPPH this October. Times & tickets will be confirmed soon here.