Review of A Monster Calls (2016) by Calumrhys — 20 Jan 2017

I find that the best kind of films end up being the ones you approach knowing little about, with average-low expectations - that was my initial approach to 'A Monster Calls', and boy was I wrong.

A film that plays out as a fantasy-drama, a coming-of-age tale and a family melodrama, 'A Monster Calls' opened as any typical coming-of-age drama does; introductions to the characters were made and we were given a brief glimpse into their daily lives, however as it progresses, we are suddenly faced with a complex and emotionally-stirring plot that piles on layers of heartfelt drama, intriguing character development and gorgeous CGI and cinematography that accompany the tale of a young boy who evades his complicated daily life by escaping to a world of fantasy tales told by the titular monster, voiced by Liam Neeson, in yet another CGI role made perfectly for his booming voice (after success as Aslan).

There are many I have known who have seen this film and have afterwards shed a tear, and rightfully so, the story is one of the most moving and encapsulating I've seen in a long time, bringing in elements of dark fantasy to compliment the main plot. The visuals throughout are stunning in all mediums, beautiful cinematography, visually-striking CGI and gorgeous animated watercolour scenes. All-in-all, 'A Monster Calls' might just be the ultimate "small" movie of 2016.