A Monster Calls (2016)
2016
PG-13
108 Minutes
A boy attempts to deal with his mother's illness and the bullying of his classmates by escaping to a fantastical world.
User Review
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An adaptation of the critically acclaimed novel, A Monster Calls is about a 12 year old boy who struggles to come to terms with his mother's battle with cancer. I remember reading the book a few years ago and was moved by the unique perspective of such a tragic yet relatable story. Having now seen the film adaptation, I can safely say that this is one of the best book-to-film adaptations I've seen and if this does not get nominated...heads will roll. Newcomer Lewis MacDougall takes on the role of Conor, quite a difficult character to portray but he does so perfectly. I had initial concerns especially as a newcomer but his debut performance solidifies that he will have a successful career in the future. He wasn't an annoying child actor, he personified the maturity of Conor exceptionally and when it came to the more emotionally driven scenes he was extraordinarily good. He is in the company of Felicity Jones (who I really really hopes gets nominated) and Sigourney Weaver in which the latter gives one of her best performances. The story is one we have seen many times in films, but what makes this more creative is the story is told through the perspective of Conor and the monster he imagines to help get him through this difficult time. Even the credits are told through his perspective as the characters are stated as their relationship to Conor (i.e. Mum, Dad etc.), I thought that was a nice touch. J.A. Bayona mixes the dark mature tones with the child-friendly shell that the marketing may have you suggest but do not be fooled. I can assure you, you will feel. You will get the feels. I consider myself emotionless and yet I grew slightly teary in many scenes, it's just so emotionally powerful without the film being manipulative and to me that is an extremely admirable trait to have. As the monster (voiced by the epic ness that is Liam Neeson) describes three tales to Conor, the film pulls the audience into a watercolour animation sequence which is absolutely beautiful to look at. The fact that Bayona decided to retain the watercolour and sketching style shows that he knows what he is doing, he is a confident visual director. Patrick Ness, who wrote the book, also wrote the script for the film which is why it is an extremely faithful adaptation. Perfect balance of smart wit and captivating drama. Overall, A Monster Calls is simply one of the best dramas I have ever seen. Tantalisingly powerful, heart achingly emotional and beautifully majestic. The best thing I can say, is that I want to see it again right away.4 member like this review.
