Review of Song of the Sea (2014) by Martin I — 18 Mar 2015

Enchanting and beautiful. These are really the only two words you need to sum up the splendid "Song of the Sea" which is fit for children, adults and fantasy fans alike.

The astonishingly beautiful imagery unravels before us like an old tapestry, capturing a sense of Nordic and even Scandinavian lore and myth and incorporating it into the art. The setting, on an Irish lighthouse amongst the waves, only adds that feeling of being part of an old folk tale full of magic and director Tomm Moore delivers.

These captivating elements seep into all aspects of the film; with the lullaby voice work that at times becomes almost lyrical, to the score and the truly lovely story that they inspire to help create.

There's depth here too, with a complicated and conflicted young protagonist whose central story touches on the feelings of loss, jealousy and ultimately the weight of responsibility. Having all this play out in a fantastic, child-friendly fantasy setting makes for heart-warming viewing that should not disappoint.

How "Big Hero 6" won the Oscar and this did not is nothing short of a travesty. It's the best animation I've seen so far this year, easily.