Starring: David Rawle, Brendan Gleeson, Fionnula Flanagan, Lissa Hannigan (voice cast)
Song of the Sea
Director: Tomm Moore
Rating: 5/5
It was back in 2009 that Cartoon Saloon blasted onto the animation movie scene when they made their feature film debut with the stunning Secret of Kells, which went on to be Oscar nominated.
Now the studio and director Tomm Moore are back with their latest feature film Song of the Sea, which is equally as stunning and cannot be missed this weekend is you are a fan of this wonderful genre.
Song of the Sea has already picked up a Best Animated Feature Oscar nomination this year and is set to be one of the most outstanding films in this genre in 2015.
Song of the Sea tells the story of Ben and his little sister Saoirse - the last Seal-child - who embark on a fantastic journey across a fading world of ancient legend and magic in an attempt to return to their home by the sea. The film takes inspiration from the mythological Selkies of Irish folklore, who live as seals in the sea but become humans on land.
Tomm Moore really does cement himself as one of the most exciting animation directors around as he delivers another gem with Song of the Sea - this really is one of the most beautiful and touching animation movies that you will see this year.
To say that Song of the Sea is a stunning looking movie would be a major understatement; the traditionally animated film is a welcome breath of fresh air from all of the CGI driven films that we have seen in this genre in recent years.
There's nothing wrong with the CGI animation movies - far from it as I think that they are terrific - but there is something otherworldly about this form of animation.
This movie is deeply rooting in myth and folklore and this traditional animation style fits the story and the film's themes so beautifully. There is an enchantment and a magic to every frame of this film and it really does wash over you and take on a wonderful journey.
I love the Irish/Celtic myth, folklore, and legend about this movie as it really does set itself apart from any other animation film that we will see this year. I love that fact that Moore and co had the confidence to explore a culture that many in the audience will know nothing about. I love being invited into another world through film... and that is exactly what Song of the Sea does.
So far, Song of the Sea is the best animation movie that I have seen so far this year - hard to see how this movie missed out on the Best Picture Oscar. Moore has delivered a movie that is heart-warming and touching as well as visually stunning. A triumph from start to finish.
Song of the Sea is out now.