Hammerman Ikon

Hammerman Ikon Film Guide

Paranorman
2012
****
Director: Sam Fell, Chris Butler
Cast: Kodi Smit-McPhee, Jodelle Ferland, Tucker Albrizzi, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, Jeff Garlin, Bernard Hill, Elaine Stritch

Norman is a young boy who can see dead people. His ability has turned him into a bullied loner, but when an ancient curse puts his home town in danger, his skills could save the day. This charming stop-motion animation pays a loving homage to the history of horror cinema. Although the film tells a familiar story of an outsider who seeks acceptance, with traditional witches and zombies, the script by Chris Butler is sprinkled with wonderful twists which keep things fresh. And when the characters are quirkily designed and the gags consistently funny, the end result is very enjoyable.