Saoirse is a child who is the last of the selkies, women in Irish and Scottish legends who transform from seals into people. She escapes from her grandmother’s home to journey to the sea and free fairy creatures trapped in the modern world.
I’ve been wanting to see this since I saw the trailer exactly a year ago. I was so impressed by the visuals of The Secret of Kells (2009), I adore the hand-drawn animation style where virtually EVERY single scene is worth framing. Five years later, filmmaker Tomm Moore is back with another mythical tale, this time it’s based on an ancient Celtic myth of the selkie, creatures that live as seals in the sea but shed their skin to become human on land (per Wiki).
Brendan Gleeson is also back as one of the voice cast, but it’s David Rawle as the young boy Ben who’s the lead of the film, along with his younger sister Saoirse who’s mostly silent throughout the film. The story begins with a young boy losing his mother and later on, which prompts his dad Conor (Gleeson) to place Ben and Saoirse with their grandmother in the city. But from there, he ends up embarking on an adventure of his life.
I have to admit the story isn’t too easy to follow at times, but the visuals are so breathtakingly-beautiful I don’t mind so much. I’m not saying this film is more style than substance, as there’s a deep and magical quality of the mythical tale that once you grasp what’s going on, it’s really quite an emotional ride. I admire the tremendous craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating each animated piece. The vibrant colors and ethereal quality, paired with the lush Celtic music, it’s like a beautiful lullaby of a movie that transports you into an otherworldly realm.
Like in The Secret of Kells where you could practically smell the trees and the ground the characters walk on, there’s something so evocative about the ocean landscape in this movie. I could practically feel the sea breeze, the chilly wave and wind of the Irish coast. The visuals is truly a feast for the eyes that the slower pace actually gives you room to appreciate the artwork before you.
This is an absolute must-see for any fan of animated features, or anyone looking for something unique and magical. There’s a heartwarming familial theme makes this a perfect film to watch with the whole family, even though there are perhaps some scenes that might spook really young children.
This movie was among the nominees for Best Animated Features at last year’s Oscar which went to Big Hero 6. Now if I had seen this last year, I would’ve been torn to pick between the two. Both are worthy contenders to be sure, though in terms of visuals, I think this one is more unique. Props to Tomm Moore for creating yet another animated masterpiece. This is only his second directorial project, so I can’t wait to see what else he’ll tackle next!
FLIXCHATTER FILM BLOG 
Great review! This looks really sweet. It’s definitely something I’d like to check out eventually.
It really is Britt, I think you’d enjoy this. A great one to watch w/ the whole family.
I haven’t seen it, but with young visitors coming my way soon, maybe I can rent it in time and watch it with them.
Oh then it’ll be perfect to watch w/ the kiddies. I think you’ll enjoy this Cindy, I also recommend The Secret of Kells from the same filmmaker.
The art look phenomenal. On my list of movies to see.
It is indeed Dave, it’s so different from other animated features out there. But the story is also beautiful and heartfelt.
I liked this one quite a bit.
Glad to hear Chip, it’s so enchanting!
YES! So glad that you loved this one too!
I remember reading your review on this. Glad we both love this one Drew!
I’ve never heard of this one before but probably won’t see it, I think the last animated movie I saw was Toy Story 3. The animation looks beautiful though.
I think if you’re not hugely into animation, this might not be for you as it’s a bit slow in parts. But yeah, the animation style is absolutely gorgeous!
The art style really does look incredible! This one and Boxtrolls are the two Oscar noms from last year for best animated feature film that I still have to see. If it comes up on Netflix I’d might check it out.
I haven’t seen Boxtrolls yet but for I’m actually not fond of that animation style, I prefer the more vibrant colors like this one. It just looks so fresh and lively. I love the story of this one too!
Mr O and I went to see some or other film and they played this trailer. I said oh that looks lovely and he said, oh god what a load of crap. So I think I will be seeing it alone…
A load of crap??? Nooooo!! I hope you’d still check it out Abbi, there’s nothing crappy about this film.
I’m so looking forward to this. We don’t get nearly enough movies like this these days. Fine work Ruth!
It is so unique Mark, hope you see this on the big screen when it opens this weekend in the UK!
The way you make the animation sound has me really wanting to check this and the other movie you mentioned out. It sounds amazing!!
Hi Jordan, sorry I missed your comment somehow. Yes do check it out, it’s marvelously beautiful and magical!
Woo hoo! This movie is gorgeous, and it’d easily be my pick for Best Animated Film last year. Glad you loved it as well!
Hi Josh! Yes it’s so incredibly lush and gorgeous indeed. Glad you picked it as Best Animated Film, it should’ve won!
Pingback: JULY Viewing Recap + Movie of the Month |
Wonderful review Ruth! I love this one and I definitely believe it deserved to take home the Oscar. The visuals are beautiful and the story is more akin to Studio Ghibli than anything that’s come from Pixar or Dreamworks etc – something that really appealed to me.
Yes indeed this is more akin to Studio Ghibli than Pixar in terms of tone and pacing. It’s also a deeper film than what you usually expect from animated features.
Pingback: Top 10 Films of 2020 + 15 Honorable Mentions – FlixChatter Film Blog
Pingback: 17 Irish Movies to Watch on St Patrick’s Day – FlixChatter Film Blog
Pingback: FlixChatter Review: Wolfwalkers (2021) – FlixChatter Film Blog