The Boxtrolls

The Boxtrolls is a captivating animation film released in 2014. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including the renowned Ben Kingsley, Jared Harris, and Nick Frost. As an immersive piece of art, the narrative draws viewers of all ages into its beautifully whimsical world, presenting a tantalizing blend of adventure, humor, and heartfelt emotion.

Set in the Victorian era, the narrative revolves around the fictional town of Cheesebridge. The name does suit the town as its privileged members are inordinately fond of cheese - more than their own children perhaps - much to the amusement of anyone watching. The charming setting goes beyond the strange admiration for cheese, as Cheesebridge holds many more eccentricities and somehow the cheese fascination is not even the strangest aspect of the town's daily life.

For beneath the cobblestone streets of this seemingly composed and sophisticated society, live the Boxtrolls. These are adorable, mischievous creatures who rummage through the town's discarded trash and treasures during the night. The Boxtrolls owe their quirky name to the cardboard boxes they wear - not just as clothing, but also as a means of quick retreat, hiding within them when they feel threatened or scared.

The existence of these adorable beings is however under threat from the town's villain, the wicked exterminator Archibald Snatcher, voiced by Ben Kingsley. His only goal is to get rid of these harmless creatures to rise above his lowly status and finally hold a coveted position amidst the town's cheese-loving elite. Fully exploiting the fear and prejudice against the Boxtrolls that pervades Cheesebridge, Snatcher is hell-bent on their eradication.

Meanwhile, the Boxtrolls are grossly misunderstood, painted as monstrous villains by the town dwellers and relentlessly hunted down by Snatcher. Nevertheless, don't be fooled by their grungy appearance or their unusual way of life. These incredible creatures are anything but terrible. They have developed a unique, supportive, and loving community underground, so ironic that it's beyond the comprehension of the supposedly 'civilized' society above.

At the heart of this community lies a human boy named Eggs, voiced by Isaac Hempstead Wright, who has been raised by the Boxtrolls since he was a baby. Eggs, so named because of the 'Eggs' cartoon on the box he wears, is unaware that he's a human child and has grown up believing himself to be a Boxtroll. The delightful character, with his innocent heart and undeniably human characteristics, drives the entire emotional quotient of the film.

Eggs' world starts to unravel when he meets Winnie, a spirited girl from the town above who becomes an unexpected but vital ally. Played by Elle Fanning, Winnie dreams of adventures and sees the Boxtrolls not as monsters, but as fascinating beings. And it is through their evolving friendship that we, the viewers, begin to see the Boxtrolls from a different, loving perspective, shattering the preconceptions established by Cheesebridge's society.

'The Boxtrolls' as a film takes us on an exciting journey as we follow Eggs, Winnie, and the Boxtrolls in their quest for acceptance and survival. At the core of this movie lies a heartwarming message about the power of friendship, the importance of family - even non-traditional ones - and the courage it takes to defy societal prejudices by choosing to be different.

This film is a product of the imaginative minds at LAIKA, the studio that gave us other innovative stop-motion films like 'Coraline' and 'ParaNorman'. The Boxtrolls is a testament to the creative prowess of this studio, breathing life into an authentic universe rich with detail and texture through its striking visual style. The clever use of stop motion animation enhances the storytelling, adding layers to the characters and the world they inhabit.

Rated PG, The Boxtrolls is not merely a children's movie. It offers engaging and entertaining content for adults as well - filled with depth and subtle societal commentary that can spark many interesting conversations post-viewing. The narrative delves into themes like marginalization, social hierarchy, acceptance of differences, and the destructive power of prejudice, reflecting some pressing issues of our times.

With its enchanting characters, engaging storyline, and stunning visual brilliance – The Boxtrolls stands out as an endearing stop-motion movie. The charm of this tale, riddled with humor, emotion, and important life lessons, is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. A testament to the magic of storytelling and animation, The Boxtrolls offers an adventurous and heartwarming watch.