A Monster Calls Review - An Impressive, Unique Blend of Spectacle and Depth

There a lot of films about cancer, because it's a topic that many people relate to, providing a lot of dramatic and emotional potential. However, there are only so many times you can rehash the same basic storyline before it feels stale. Fortunately, A Monster Calls avoids that. Adapted from the fantastic book by Patrick Ness (based on an idea by Siobhan Dowd), this film tackles terminal illness from a refreshingly original angle.

A Monster Calls follows Conor (Lewis MacDougall) struggling to come to terms with his mum's (Felicity Jones) terminal cancer. On a dramatic level, the film explores how this affects Conor's life well, empathetically showing the effect it has on everyday activities and his relationships. Notably, it focuses on Conor's attempt to reconnect with his estranged father (Toby Kebbell) and the complex impact on Conor's difficult relationship with his Grandma (Sigourney Weaver).

Whilst all of this is done very well, it's not anything that hasn't been done before. However, that all changes once Liam Neeson's monster calls. The huge, motion capture tree creature visits Conor to tell him three fables. This plot device gives what could've been a standard drama a gothic fantasy twist, helping the film's tone stand out. These tales also contribute to Conor's character development, teaching him (along with the audience) how to handle how he's feeling. The plot eventually builds up to an intense emotional climax, ending with a resonant final lesson.

The fables themselves also showcase some wonderfully creative filmmaking. Neeson narrates them masterfully and they're visually represented by stunningly vivid animations. They resemble watercolours which, as well as looking gorgeously colourful, links them to the important role art plays in Conor's development.The simultaneous spectacle and emotional depth of the animation encapsulates the essence of the film, which manages to pull off a rare balance between the two.

A Monster Calls was a box office flop, which is a real shame. Despite dealing with familiar cinematic territory, the film achieves something original, without compromising on emotional power. If you're looking for something that'll fascinate you as much as it makes you cry, A Monster Calls is the perfect fit.

8.3/10

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