ParaNorman (2012)

ParaNorman: Directed by Chris Butler, Sam Fell. With Kodi Smit-McPhee, Tucker Albrizzi, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck. A misunderstood boy takes on ghosts, zombies and grown-ups to save his town from a centuries-old curse.

“Without spending too much time discussing the plot, this movie is essentially a film about a misfit kid who ultimately must save the town that has misunderstood and mistreated him for most of his life. Yes, Norman sees dead people. However, everyone is aware of Normanu0026#39;s claim of this power and they either ridicule him (other kids) or are ashamed of his seemingly wild claim and erratic behaviour. Of course Normanu0026#39;s extra-sensory powers will soon be required to rid the town of a curse. The resulting events make for a great story and film.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThere are several themes in this film that were well developed and ultimately resolved to my satisfaction. The animation is incredible, and I loved the creative camera shots that the director(s) chose in many scenes: much more advanced than the usual animated film. u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eI took 2 children to see this movie, a 6-year old girl and a (near) 4 boy. The kids loved the comedic zombie scenes in particular and were laughing out loud for much of it. They were frightened in other parts but in a functional thematic way, not to the point of nightmares. However I did note that some of the deeper themes went right over the kidsu0026#39; heads, and while they werenu0026#39;t too bothered by this fact, I advise that children over 8 might enjoy the film more fully.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThe climax of the film is beautifully animated, and very poignant. On the whole a great film. I would state only that the humour surrounding the zombies was hilarious for adults and children alike, and I would have included more of it. Certainly this film is worth the admission. I saw it in 3D, it wasnu0026#39;t mind-blowing 3D but it certainly gave the film more texture.”