'ParaNorman' - A Movie Review

Quick, we have to get to the witch’s grave before she wakes up and wreaks havoc!

ParaNorman is a 2012 animated film about a lonely boy who has the ability to see ghosts. One night, a witch’s curse befalls the town bringing zombies back from the grave. It is up to Norman to put an end to everything before it all gets out of hand.

I saw ParaNorman twice in the theaters! It is a bold movie for its genre that takes a step away from the traditionally animated film. The story, characters, and morals of the story make ParaNorman a memorable film about accepting differences and courage.

Norman gradually changes from an awkward little boy who doesn’t want anything to do with his special ability, growing into a confident person, trusting himself and relating to others who feel lost like him.

All the characters experience a dramatic change in the movie. One of my favorite parts about ParaNorman is how character-driven it is. Unlike other animated films where the story only focuses on the protagonist, we briefly witness scenes with minor characters. Everyone has a story.

Adding their incredible voice talents are Kodi Smit-McPhee, Tucker Albrizzi, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, Jeff Garlin, Bernard Hill, and so many other fantastic performers. Expect an appearance by John Goodman and one of the final film roles of Elaine Stritch.

Norman’s interactions with each character are very important. I love Norman and Neil’s friendship. Instead of outcasting Norman like everyone else in school, Neil gives Norman a chance, even investing more in his abilities to see ghosts. Friendship is important. It never matters how different you are.

Mitch and Courtney’s subplots are the best! As Norman’s dramatic sister, Courtney flirts with Niel’s brother, Mitch. Mitch has made quite a bold mark on animated films. Though Courtney is stuck up and selfish at times, her scenes where she defends Norman are heartwarming. Siblings will always look out for one another, no matter what.

I liked scenes involving Norman’s family. ParaNorman is a great example that sometimes family members don’t get along. There is still a way to settle differences and make amends.

Stop-motion is one of my favorite uses in movies. Stop-motion takes hard work, but in the end, the results are fantastic! Character designs are unique and fun. Filmmakers did an excellent job with each character, especially the zombies! I could tell that everyone had a ball making this film.

The climax is one of the most incredible scenes in the entire movie! I remember sitting forward on my seat, wondering how they were making this picture come to life with this unique style of animation.

One of my favorite aspects of the story is the scenario about Norman having the ability to see ghosts. Why are ghosts still here? That question is answered beautifully in one scene by the ghost of Norman’s grandmother. ParaNorman has an equal mixture of emotional sentiment, combined with humor.

The humor is crude at times, especially for a kid’s movie. Honestly, that’s my favorite part of this movie. ParaNorman doesn’t hold back. I laughed out loud in the theater at so many of the well-crafted jokes. The dialogue is hilarious and there are quite a few background moments that make you giggle.

Don’t hold onto anger. It restrains one from living the life they want. Accept others for who they are. ParaNorman is not a film for all little kids. It has considerable dark moments, and scary character designs. This is one of my favorite animated films and I am so glad that it exists.