Title: A Monster Calls
Year: 2016
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Adventure, Family, Horror, Animation
Rating: 7.3
Cast: Lewis MacDougall, Sigourney Weaver, Felicity Jones, Toby Kebbell, Ben Moor
Description: Forget whimsical fairytales; "A Monster Calls" confronts the brutal reality of childhood grief with a breathtaking tenderness. This isn't a children's film that shies away from the darkness, but rather one that uses fantastical elements to illuminate the darkest corners of the human heart. Through a towering, ancient being – a creature both terrifying and comforting – young Conor O'Malley grapples with his mother's illness and the crushing weight of unspoken anxieties. The film masterfully balances the fantastical and the deeply personal, creating a visceral experience that lingers long after the credits roll. It's a testament to the power of storytelling, demonstrating how even in the face of unimaginable loss, hope and resilience can endure. The performances are breathtakingly raw, and the visual storytelling is both stunning and subtly symbolic, leaving you contemplating the film's profound exploration of loss, courage, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. "A Monster Calls" is not just a film; it’s a necessary conversation starter, a poignant reminder of life's fragility and the enduring power of love.