The folks at Laika Studio (ParaNorman, Box Trolls, Coraline) excel in creating atypical animations: Atypical because they use labor-intensive stop-motion and diverge from traditional subject matter. This film tells the story of a young Japanese boy with storytelling gifts and magical origami skills. He sets out with his friends Monkey & Beetle to discover his family’s secrets. While the animation is lovely, the story moves with a humble pace and dramatic nuance that is often slowed by long scenes of gentle dialogue. There are a few modern-style quips tossed about, but this is not a comedy. There’s a sweet appeal and a quiet charm, but it ultimately lacks much emotional punch and visual splendor. Do children enjoy art films? NOTE: Stay thru the credits to see how one of the creatures is animated.
(3 / 5)