Coraline is visually stunning, narratively incredible

Rating: 7/10 (19 March 2009)

From Henry Selick, the visionary director of The Nightmare Before Christmas and James and the Giant Peach comes the film adaptation of Coraline. The story of a young girl who finds a world all her own until her dream becomes a very realistic nightmare.
Dakota Fanning voices the young Coraline and brings spunk and personality to a young heroin. Teri Hatcher in the villainous role of Coraline's alternate mother is simply marvelous. A terrific voice-acting performance and not since Ellen Degeneres have we seen an actress so involved.
The rest of the usual suspects are there, Jennifer Saunders, Keith David, and Ian McShane. The story is very well told and in my humble opinion, not suitable at all for children. This is a lot even for me. It almost plays out like a horror film, building suspense and pulling us through this tall tale.
Worth a watch and definitely in consideration for an Animated Feature Film nomination. Go through the door.
***/****