A boy imagines a monster that helps him deal with his difficult life and see the world in a different way.
A Monster Calls is a 2016 fantasy drama directed by J.A. Bayona, based on the novel by Patrick Ness. The film follows 12-year-old Conor O’Malley (Lewis MacDougall), who is grappling with his mother’s (Felicity Jones) terminal illness. Conor’s life is further complicated by his strained relationship with his grandmother (Sigourney Weaver) and bullying at school.
One night, Conor is visited by a massive yew tree that transforms into a Monster (voiced by Liam Neeson). The Monster offers to tell Conor three stories, after which Conor must share his own truth. The stories are allegorical, each revealing deeper truths about human nature and emotions. Through these tales, Conor confronts his fears, guilt, and the impending loss of his mother.
The film’s narrative intertwines fantasy and reality, using the Monster’s stories to help Conor process his emotions and come to terms with his mother’s death. The climax reveals Conor’s deepest fear: that he wished for his mother’s death to end their suffering, a truth he had been unwilling to acknowledge. The Monster’s role is to guide Conor through this emotional journey, helping him accept his feelings and find peace.
Main Themes
- Grief and Loss: The film poignantly explores the complexities of grief, particularly in children, and the process of accepting the death of a loved one.
- Courage and Acceptance: Conor’s journey is one of finding the courage to face uncomfortable truths and accepting the realities of life and death.
- The Power of Storytelling: The Monster’s stories serve as metaphors, illustrating the therapeutic power of storytelling in understanding and processing emotions.
- Isolation and Connection: Conor’s experiences highlight feelings of isolation, and the film emphasizes the importance of human connection and support during challenging times.
Impact of the Movie
A Monster Calls received critical acclaim for its direction, storytelling, and performances. Critics praised its emotional depth and the seamless integration of fantasy elements with real-world issues. The film holds a high approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting its positive reception.
7 Reasons to Watch A Monster Calls (2016)
- Emotional Depth: The film offers a profound exploration of grief and healing, resonating with viewers on a deeply emotional level.
- Stunning Visuals: The integration of fantasy sequences with live-action creates a visually captivating experience that enhances the storytelling.
- Strong Performances: The cast delivers compelling performances, with Lewis MacDougall’s portrayal of Conor being particularly noteworthy.
- Thought-Provoking Narrative: The film’s allegorical storytelling encourages viewers to reflect on complex themes such as loss, acceptance, and the human condition.
- Therapeutic Storytelling: The Monster’s tales serve as a powerful narrative device, illustrating the healing potential of stories in coping with trauma.
- Critical Acclaim: The film has been lauded by critics for its sensitive handling of difficult subjects and its artistic execution.
- Universal Themes: Despite its fantastical elements, the film addresses universal human experiences, making it relatable to a wide audience.
How Will You Feel After Watching A Monster Calls (2016)?
After watching A Monster Calls, you may experience a range of emotions:
- Moved and Reflective: The film’s exploration of grief and healing may prompt introspection about personal experiences with loss.
- Empathetic: Conor’s journey fosters empathy, allowing viewers to connect with the character’s struggles and growth.
- Inspired: The film’s message about the power of storytelling and facing one’s truths can inspire personal growth and resilience.
- Emotionally Cathartic: The film provides a safe space to confront and process complex emotions, leading to a sense of emotional release.
- Appreciative of Cinematic Artistry: The seamless blend of fantasy and reality, along with strong performances, showcases the film’s artistic excellence.
In summary, A Monster Calls is a poignant and visually stunning film that masterfully intertwines fantasy and reality to explore deep emotional themes. Its universal messages about loss, acceptance, and the healing power of storytelling make it a compelling watch for audiences seeking a meaningful cinematic experience.
