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ParaNorman Reviews

Apr 11, 2025

I’m sorry but to add such a complex and deep storyline such as the witch trials, into a kids movie, while still taking care that the plot was both enjoyable and understandable for a kids movie. was and keeps being impressive

Feb 26, 2025

i think this film is pretty good in my opinion. it has it's flaws sure like the comedy can be weak sometimes and forced but despite it's imperfections, i found it enjoyable and my favourite part of the movie is Agatha because she is just a little girl who was wrongfully executed for "witchcraft" And i used to watch this film when i was a kid. so 8/10

Feb 18, 2025

ParaNorman is scary and sometimes bizarre. But hey, I had really good laughs forms this.

Dec 11, 2024

While the characters models are not as "aesthetically pleasing" here as they were in Coraline, they are just as visually striking, in a film with a riveting plot. The true place that ParaNorman stands toe to toe and the one facet where it may beat it's predecessor is it's amazing sense of humor. While Coraline is a movie I occasionally watch all year round, ParaNorman I only watch at Halloween and in the fall, but I INSIST on watching it, and Halloween season isn't over until I do.

Nov 21, 2024

"ParaNorman" is Liaka Studio's second major film. It didn't receive the same critical nor box office success of their previous film, "Coraline". But "ParaNorman" remains an all-time great Halloween film. The movie has more of a harsh edge compared to most animated films. Keep that in mind when I say that this film is a good time for viewers of all ages. Liaka Studios continues to raise the bar in showing what the medium of stop motion can do. The tone of the story matches the style of the animation perfectly. Everything is just the right bit off. The voice acting is spot on, all characters have voices that match their characters perfectly. The music is well used, pumping up the excitement one scene, and giving the characters time to breath in another. The ending was something that took some getting used to. I appreciate the fact that it leaves the audience with something to think about. But admittedly, I don't love the ending. Without giving anything away, they take an odd detour as they approach the finale. If you are looking for a good family friendly animated horror film, then I recommend this ParaNorman activity.

Nov 3, 2024

This is one I like to watch every year. Before I mention its good points, I wanna give solid kudos to the score. Simple and very effective, poignant even. Norman has a gift and it sets him apart from - well - everyone. It's cool to see a movie put a kid who can talk with spirits front and center while surrounding him with quirky and flawed supporting players that provide laughs and work very well with the narrative. Terrific animation throughout especially when things start getting "witchy." Great work from all the actors here but Kodi Smit-McPhee is extremely winning as the title character. He expertly captures a kid trying to be true to himself while everyone around him gives him lots of flack. The penultimate scene - between Norman and the character creating all of the trouble - is at turns violent, sad and then, well, watch the movie. It's absolutely worth your time. 4 Stars.

Oct 28, 2024

It was okay…..But being a kids show said way too much suggestive things like uses of the a word and calling someone horny and other things like that should have brought it up to pg-13 like a woman on a casino billboard with a dollar bill in her cleavage. The word boob is metioned too like this is for kids take the bad stuff out-

Oct 23, 2024

It's all fun and games until someone raises the dead. ParaNorman is a 2012 American animated comedy horror film directed by Sam Fell and Chris Butler (the latter's feature directorial debut) 🧟 It’s very good! 😀 I’d definitely recommend it 👍🏼 In the town of Blithe Hollow, Norman Babcock can speak to the dead, but no one other than his eccentric new friend believes his ability is real. One day, Norman's eccentric uncle tells him of a ritual he must perform to protect the town from a curse cast by a witch centuries ago.

Oct 18, 2024

“Paranorman” is a charming fairytale that balances humor and dark themes well, making it a worthy counterpart to “Coraline,” though it doesn’t quite reach the same greatness.

Oct 14, 2024

*ParaNorman* is a delightful blend of charm and chills, earning a solid 3.5 stars. The film's stunning claymation brings its quirky characters to life, immersing viewers in a world that's both hauntingly beautiful and cleverly crafted. The premise—focusing on a young boy who can communicate with ghosts—sets the stage for a perfect family-friendly scare that’s spooky without being terrifying. With plenty of clever references to classic horror films, *ParaNorman* strikes a balance between humor and heart, making it an entertaining watch for all ages. The witty dialogue and comedic moments provide laughter, while the underlying themes of acceptance and courage resonate deeply. Overall, *ParaNorman* is a perfect pick for those looking to get spooked without the nightmares, offering a memorable experience that will keep the whole family entertained. Its blend of humor, horror, and heartfelt moments makes it a modern classic in animated storytelling.

Oct 9, 2024

Love this movie! I watch it every October and thoroughly enjoy it!

Oct 8, 2024

Surprisingly dark and delightful! Directors Sam Fell and Chris Butler’s animated dark fantasy comedy Paranorman (2012) is sure to be revisited and entertain families for many Halloweens to come. It has a moody Fall and Halloween vibe to it with a really charming character. Paranorman looks incredibly well animated from Laika, which is no surprise as they animated Henry Selick’s Coraline (2009). The detailed and expressive characters have so much personality. Sure, everyone is a walking cliche, but they really work as effective storytelling pieces. Paranorman has a lot in common with Monster House (2006) and Frankenweenie (2012), so if you ever liked those animated features, I’d say Paranorman if the encounter with the dead you’re seeking for, but never knew you needed! Editor Christopher Murrie cuts sharply from scene to scene, so you’re never bored. Paranorman moves quickly for 90 minutes at a brisk pace with a silly tone that does get dark, but kids, teenagers, and their parents will adore Paranorman if they give it a chance. It’s a shame Paranorman is mostly forgotten as it’s quite funny with Chris Butler’s heartfelt script that shames witch burners and worships horror movies. Paranorman wants to have viewers stand up to their bullies, while understanding those that are different from the norm. Tristan Oliver’s cinematography uses these cute wide shots for spooky outdoors sequences and clever visual gags throughout Paranorman. Nelson Lowry’s quaint production design makes Massachusetts look haunting with that Autumn appeal. Ross Stewart’s art direction has whimsical designs with a genuinely creepy look for the spells, zombies, and the fearsome witch. I really appreciate whoever’s idea it was that Paranorman redeems the concept of witches as really just loner Goth girls who are simply misunderstood. It’s very sweet, especially the touching finale. I was surprised at how much I loved Paranorman. Visual effects artists Brad Schiff, Oliver Jones, Susanna Luck, and Peg Serena really outdid themselves with the cool green spells and will-o-wisp looking spirits. The dynamic witch faces are outstanding for the finale. Jon Brion’s score is so beautifully composed. Brion’s music swells throughout Paranorman into a tender and haunting serenity that pleasantly surrounds Norman and his friends. Kodi Smit-McPhee is charming and likable as Norman. Jodelle Ferland is phenomenal as Aggie Prenderghast the young witch. She sounds so hurt and natural that I was actually quite moved by her voice acting. Tucker Albrizzi is charming as young fat Neil, Norman’s first friend and awkward cowardly companion. Anna Kendrick’s young, selfish Courtney is hilarious as the social media and muscular boy obsessed sister to Norman. Casey Affleck’s buff and idiotic Mitch is a riot to watch. Leslie Mann, Jeff Garlin, and John Goodman are excellent as the curious adults all about themselves. Christopher Mintz-Plasse is funny as the bully Alvin. Bernard Hill is amazing as The Judge. In the end, Paranorman doesn’t reinvent the Halloween animated movie wheel, but it is nearly as great as Coraline or Frankenweenie.

Oct 8, 2024

Horrible movie. Just insults, yelling, violence, inappropriate sexual humor & references to cops killing civilians & boys seeking out porn. No one that makes movies anymore wishes to instill a healthy value to our children.

Aug 12, 2024

Only film that has ever given me nightmares is this, not Jaws not The Blob remake, this. (When I was 5)

May 28, 2024

This film is so underrated. Deserves so much more, i agree so much that it film deserved the 2012 oscar, brave is a cool film but this stop motion have a BIG powerful message...

Mar 4, 2024

BEST HORROR ANIMATED MOVIE EVER!!!

Feb 4, 2024

This movie made my childhood, it has a unique creepy atmosphere and the stopmotion is very good.

Jan 2, 2024

É um filme divertido, com algumas piadas adultas e uma história interessante para ambos os públicos, não deixa de ser infantil, mas não é torturante assistir quando mais velho.

Dec 30, 2023

One of my comfort movies

Nov 13, 2023

Good Movie. They don't make fun family flicks like this any more. This is a well told story, with a good overall message for kids and adults alike. And there is no "message" that i can see. Of course this is pree 2016. Most movies were good before thing went crazy.

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