Review: The Boxtrolls
Graham Annable and Anthony Stacchi combine on their return to cinema, with the wonderful Boxtrolls. This was Stacchi’s first time with stop-start animation but the clever blend of real-time animation, computer generated smoothing and the artistic craft of the directors proved to be an incredibly effective method and launched Boxtrolls towards Bafta and Oscar nominations. ShowMe was invited to a private screening of the film, at Covent Garden Hotel, with the DVD release imminent.
Based on the book by Alan Snow, Here Be Monsters, Boxtroll’s is set in the mythical world of Cheesebridge and tells the story of the towns sewer-dwelling box-trolls and their battle against the gruesome Snatcher (Sir Ben Kingsley). There are some impressive themes here and alongside the family-fun, Boxtrolls addresses some contemporary issues; proving an engaging watch for all ages. Our hero Eggs (Isaac Hempstead Wright) was raised by the Boxtrolls, in Jungle-book style, and quickly proves to be the savour of the community. The grotesque Snatcher, town mayor and all-round bad guy, is the most terrific villain of recent years and his slobbering speech, greasy hair and disgusting Cheese allergy make a sizeable foe for Eggs and the gang.
Boxtroll’s narrative rivals any animation from the last ten years and aesthetically; it’s one of the best looking animated films of all-time. Cheesebridge’s winding streets, the trolls magnificent underground caverns, the charming ball room scene and the seamless interaction of characters are just a few features that pay homage to the artistic craft that’s been applied so lovingly. The people of Cheesebridge resemble Tudor fat-cats and their decadent outfits with pasty skin and pompous accents serve a brilliant contrast to the magical trolls, adding to the films effective escapism. Stacchi and Annable are masters of their craft, and this is high praise with the animation scene expanding and constantly developing, Boxtrolls is like Oliver Twist meeting Monty Python, a modern classic. This film is a typical example of recent family features. The children will enjoy the silliness and slapstick elements, becoming fascinated with Snatcher and his group of goons; whilst the older viewers will notice the themes of social climbing and class division; a clever use of layering by the directors.
Boxtrolls is nominated for the Best Animated Feature Film and it’s clear to see why. Annable worked on Coraline and Paranormon where the merging of stop-start and CG was in its infancy; now it’s taken flight and Boxtrolls has benefited hugely from this. The 3D is crisp and full of depth, offering the films most complete viewing experience, bringing Cheesebridge to life in an almost immersive fashion. The Oscar will be no walk in the park, thanks to extremely tough competition, but the nomination is a milestone achievement and recognises Boxtrolls as a work of art and an impressive fete of storytelling.
