The art of stop motion animation! True beauty in motion. I’m a big fan of the art form and the animation in ParaNorman is just eye popping.

Norman is a 11 year old who is special. He can see ghosts. His grandmother floats about the house and talks to him, much to the dismay of Norman’s father. “It’s one thing to be weird around your family, but in front of the whole town!?” Norman is an outcast, a loner, no one understands him. Except for Neil, who is also picked on and just won’t stop trying to be friends. Neil is the first out stretched hand to Norman.

With Norman’s gift, he’s given the task of saving the town from a 300 year old witch’s curse. She is going to raise the dead and Norman is the only one who can stop it. It’s a spooky and funny adventure that walks the line of horror and children’s story. There’s a certain amount of Ronald Dahl and Tim Burton approach to complex themes and visuals.

It can get pretty intense for younger viewers, but there is a really good story and message (bullies, stereotypes, judging others based on how they look) in ParaNorman. I’d say a kid 10 or older wouldn’t be freaked out and would really enjoy the ride. There’s some creepy moments followed by some good laughs, I’m really impressed at how well this movie walks a very precarious line. The animation really sells the tone of the movie.

Highly recommended.