An interesting, stop motion/animation film based on an intriguing concept.
Motivational speaker Michael Stone (voiced by David Thewlis) arrives in Cincinnati for a sold-out stage appearance. Checking into the Fregoli Hotel, he awkwardly attempts to reconnect with a past flame before unexpectedly meeting a young woman attending his seminar (Jennifer Jason Leigh), whom he finds to be utterly unique.
Anomalisa is a complex, intriguing story about being different, individuality and conformity. It is told in a clever and unique way and the script is masterfully adapted from the play. The use of stop motion and animation helps to make the story more unnerving and certainly sets the audience on edge. The voice cast is superb and Tom Noonan is the stand-out. While this is a unnerving watch, I can certainly recommend it for those looking for something unique in their cinema.
Overall this isn’t a film you feel comfortable watching, my guest at the screening didn’t relax until half way into the film. However, on reflection – after one recovers from the shock of the eerie animation, the story, characters and vocal performances are brilliant. This Oscar nominated animated feature is one only film-buffs will love!
3.5 Stars
Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay
Screening courtesy of Paramount Pictures
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