'Coraline' and more

By Alexis Larsen, GO! EDITOR 7:57 PM Thursday, July 23, 2009

This week is a big one for DVD releases. “Watchmen” alone makes this true. But those uninterested  in fanboy fare might want to give “Coraline” a try. Based on the wonderful book by Neil Gaiman (check him out if you haven’t already), “Coraline” tells the story of a little girl who makes a big move to a new home in a new state with her parents — who are distracted to say the least; distracted to the point of ignoring their only child. Looking to entertain herself, she happens on a door that leads to a dark, new world that’s both inviting and menacing but becomes darker with each visit. It’s not a surprise that this animated film is so rich and brilliant on all counts. Having been written and directed by Henry Selick (“James and the Giant Peach,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas) set the bar high from the get go, and it didn’t disappoint. The incredible color and fascinating animation style reminded me of my favorite video game of all time — “Psychonauts” created by the incredible Tim Schafer (“Grim Fandango” and soon “Brütal Legend,” voiced by Jack Black, which is releasing in October). Whether you like to read (Neil Gaiman), watch (“Coraline”) or play (“Psychonauts”), all are worth investigating.

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