Kubo and the Two Strings proves why the lost medium of stop-motion animation is still just as impressive and groundbreaking. Laika studios, the same people who brought us Coraline, Paranorman, and the Box Trolls, make what might be their best film to date. With stunning visuals, unique flare, incredible world building, brilliant performances, and a whole lot of heart, Kubo offers an amazing film for all ages.
Kubo is set in the ancient reaches of Japan and much of the film focusses on the culture and uses the setting perfectly. We follow Kubo, a young boy whom has lost his father and must now care for his dying mother. Kubo does have magical abilities that he puts to the test as he goes on an adventure accompanied by a beetle (Mathew McConaughey) and a monkey (Charlize Theron). This world Kubo sets up allows for mystical elements of talking monkeys and witches, but manages to find a point of realism that blends every crazy element of the film perfectly.
All the actors lay wonderfully off each other, Charlize Theron and Mathew McConaughey especially, with their dueling characters and witty banter. The star studded cast matches the level of animation and gives great memorable performances. Each character gets a minor arc and even result in a heartwarming conclusion for everyone, the villain even gets a touching ending too. This film balances each character perfectly and they all get stand out moments that don’t feel forced.
The animation in this movie is beautiful and breath-taking. Every scene could be pulled to be a painting, or in this case, a miniature sculpture. Even with the clear mastery of stop motion that Laika delivers, there is still a handmade element to their movies that just feels right. At times, the animation is so fluid that I forgot scenes were stop motion, which just makes me even more intrigued on how this film was made.
Kubo stands out from other “kids” movies and shows that just because something is animated, doesn't mean it cannot deal with mature themes. Kubo deals with legacy and self-worth and most of all, Kubo deals with family and its importance. Its ending is very impactful and sweet, almost bringing me to tears. I loved every ounce of this movie.
Kubo and the Two Strings is easily my favorite animated film this year and may end up being one of the best of 2016 with the awe inspiring visuals, original story, fun characters, and overall magic of this movie shine. Laika is always looking to transcend what is possible with stop motion and here they do it once again, creating their best film to date and pushing the medium forward.
