Movie Reviews

Song of the Sea - 9/4/15

In the world of cinema, it's not strange for a film to be based off of ancient folklore. Hercules, Dracula, and even angels and demons are all popular examples. No matter the culture, any folklore can be made into a motion picture, as they are stories meant to be told through time. The problem with this fact, though, is that folklore is a constant victim of popularity. Dig deep through the piles of movies on your Netflix queue or on your DVD shelf, and it's guaranteed that you'll have more stories about Greek gods and European monsters than you will have Native American stories about why the wolf cries to the moon when its full, or why the seasons change color. So when a film talks about legends and ancient myths from a culture films (and people) aren't really familiar with, I am worried that said movie will begin a trend of whether or not said culture should be paid attention to.

Released in late 2014, that movie is, 'Song of the Sea.' Does this film masterfully draw attention to a culture previously untapped by the cinematic world? Or, should this film be sent to the bottom of the ocean? Well....

The Plot: 

One night, tragedy strikes the Irish family of Conor, a lighthouse keeper, his son Ben, and his wife Bronagh, as the expecting mother disappears without a trace, save for her newborn daughter, Saoirse, and a sparkling white coat. Six years have passed since that night, and a broken-hearted Conor's mother has finally decided it would be more proper for Ben and Saoirse to live with her in the City. Little does the family know that since Saoirse is coming of age, strange, mystical things are beginning to happen, and it will all the love and courage two siblings have to reunite their family and save the day from the machinations of the Irish witch, Macha.

The plot is nothing new. Kids finding out something special about themselves and/or their parents, said kids having to go on an adventure to save their parents, and inadvertently the world, is a story-line that has been done time and time again, popular examples being the 'Spy Kids' film series, and the popular book-series, 'The 39 Clues.' But what makes the plot so memorable in this film is how it's presented. The Irish mythology and history that's evident throughout the movie really gives the plot a fresh look, and this new presentation is all the more likely to cement itself inside the audience's mind; in fact, this could be seen as the kind of quest undertaken by heroes and demigods......except, these  heroes are between 6 to 10 years old. What makes the plot even more potent is the film's moral, and I've got to say, it's a pretty heavy one, especially for kids. I won't spoil what it is since it ties so heavily into the movie, but you'll be surprised when its delivered to you.

The Characters: 

The film's cast is quite small in this movie, not including the characters that make one-scene appearances, which are entertaining. Now, the lack of variety from the main cast can become an issue to some members of the audience, but to counteract this downside, there is a lot of emotional baggage and development to these characters, especially in the older brother Ben. Seeing his emotional transition from angst-ridden to <spoilers> throughout the film is definitely one of the movie's highlights. The film's antagonist, the witch Macha, is also an interesting character; for what reasons, though, that you'll have to see for yourself.

The Animation:

 One word: Beautiful. Like when Disney's, 'The Princess & The Frog' came out a few years ago, the hand-drawn style of animation is a welcome contrast to all the computer animation that's so popular in films these days. What's more, the hand-drawn animation has a distinct Irish style and coloring to it, with all the objects in the movie's background looking seamlessly connected - it  really is a pretty sight to behold. The plot may not be as full as other films, but the movie makes up for that with its memorable visuals, music, and characters.

Final Results: If I haven't made it clear already, this is film EVERYONE will be happy to see at least once in their lives. The animation, tone, and story the film presents with the unique Irish 'flavoring' are all welcome treats. I hope that this movie inspires other to branch out with the types of stories they tel, and what cultures they look to for inspiration.

How Should You See This Movie: If this movie was in theaters, I'd say go see it right now. However, seeing how this film is already a few years old, I'd recommend this film be one of the ones you put on you DVD shelf. You won't be disappointed.

Rating: A-