This film had a great sound design, perhaps too great, as I also have sensitive ears (not as much as the protagonist but enough to cover my ears at times). Leo Woodall was already on my radar, and he's really well-utilized here. Dustin Hoffman had the perfect amount of charm to pull off an important part, and it was good to see him again.
The acting overall was well-done, but there were a few too many coincidences in the script for me to rate this higher.
I am unashamedly biased about all things Mandalorian and Grogu. If I can have them both on a screen having adventures, I am sat. Throw in Ray Harryhaussen-like creature fights and Sigourney (Queen of Sci-Fi) Weaver, and I'm delighted. Also, and this is no small point, actual puppetry with not just one character, but 5, makes my heart sing. What with Rocky from Project Hail Mary and this, it's a great time to see live creations interacting within these worlds.…
This film is much like seeing an art masterpiece at a museum. I can recognize the amazing craft, the historical references, the surprising break from the known, the elegance and beauty in the work, and yet, if it doesn't engage my heart, leaves me impressed but ultimately cold.
I was frustrated about rating this film. Here are all the things I loved about it:
*1st feature length animated film (that still exists)
*Stunningly animated in a shadow puppet style created by the writer/director--who was a woman!
*The "savior" of the film is a witch!
Why I don't want to rate it too highly:
*It suffers from racist and gender issues predominant throughout the era and in faerie tales in general. Made worse here by the stereotypical profiles created in silhouette.
So, it's fantastic except that it isn't because I wouldn't feel comfortable showing it to a child without discussions about race/gender.
