Stopmotion (2023)

Stopmotion (2023). 1h 33m | R

“Greetings again from the darkness. The art of stop-motion consists of bringing hunks of clay to life and telling an interesting story. Itu0026#39;s excruciatingly slow work requiring meticulous attention to detail. The first feature length film from animator-turned-writer/director Robert Morgan is co-written with Robin King, and pays homage to this distinct art form. Of course, since itu0026#39;s a horror film, it also makes good use of the adage … an artist being consumed by their art.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eAisling Franciosa (so memorable in THE NIGHTINGALE, 2018) stars as Ella Blake, who is assisting her mother (Stella Gonet), a renowned stop-motion artist, with her u0026quot;last filmu0026quot;. Arthritis has seized momu0026#39;s hands and so she barks orders at her daughter in frustration of her own limitations. Once out from under her motheru0026#39;s controlling ways, Ella finds her own space in an old apartment, where she begins to pursue her own vision. Soon sheu0026#39;s visited by an odd and inquisitive little girl (Caolinn Springall), presumably from the neighborhood. The girl labels Ellau0026#39;s work u0026quot;boringu0026quot; and proceeds to tell her own story about Ashman, who haunts a girl in the forest over three nights. Ella is captivated, and we quickly recognize she is in the midst of a slow descent into madness … unaware of who this little girl actually is.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eDirector Morgan first introduces us to Ella over the opening credits. The flashing lights in a nightclub play visual tricks, and Ella alternates between good and evil looks (think of the two-face syndrome in u0026quot;Seinfeldu0026quot;). This is an early clue about the filmu0026#39;s path. Morgan also provides contrast between the stark working conditions of the studio (whether itu0026#39;s momu0026#39;s basement or Ellau0026#39;s apartment) and the more lively and colorful clubs and parties where she hangs out with her boyfriend (Tom York). Adding to the filmu0026#39;s visual treats are some unusual camera angles courtesy of cinematographer Leo Hinstin.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThe final act features some extreme gore, so be prepared. Itu0026#39;s rare for a film to feature raw meat, a dead fox, maggots, and mutilation, but few films have successfully blended the use of stop-action animation with live-action drama. Aisling Franciosa has the instincts to convincingly portray a troubled artist when the wires are crossed between reality and creativity. Getting creeped out is all part of the show.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eOpens in theaters on February 23, 2024.”