A Monster Calls
dir. J. A. Bayona · 2016
Feature
Coming of Age
Mood
Melancholic / Uplifting
Look
lush, painterly visuals with a blend of dark and vibrant colors
Structure
nonlinear storytelling interwoven with fantastical elements
Plot
The monster does not come walking often. This time it comes to Conor, and it asks for the one thing Conor cannot bring himself to do. Tell the truth. This is a very touching story about a boy who feels very damaged, guilty and mostly angry. He struggles at school with bullies, and pity looks from everyone, and at home with his mother's sickness. Will Conor overcome his problems? Will everything be okay? Will Conor be able to speak the truth?
Why watch
"A Monster Calls" is a poignant exploration of grief and truth, where a young boy confronts his deepest fears through the lens of a fantastical monster. With its lush visuals and heartfelt narrative, this film invites viewers to embrace the complexities of loss and healing.
Cultural context
contemporary childhood experiencesthe stigma of mental healththe impact of familial illnessthe intersection of fantasy and reality