Based on Patrick Ness' unique novel, A Monster Calls is a heart-wrenching masterpiece that leaves you emotionally shaken. It transports you to the dark corners of your mind and makes you come to terms with your worst fear — losing a parent.
This one’s certainly not for the faint-hearted for it has deep sadness looming over it. However, despite the melancholy engulfing you throughout, the tragic fantasy also prepares you to pick up the pieces and move on. It’s cathartic and courageous.
While the fictional tale stands out for director J.A. Bayona’s vision and interpretation of the unconventional novel, it’s unsentimental take on surviving grief tugs at your heartstrings the most. Beneath all the visual excellence and special effects-enhanced live action imagery, lies a human story that’s close to everyone’s heart.
Lewis MacDougall fits the bill as Conor, who’s ‘too old to be a kid, too young to be a man’. He internalises his unfortunate situation and renders an act that’s awe-inspiring for a child his age. Felicity Jones is flawless once again and makes you weep with her sincere portrayal of an ailing mother, worried for the well-being of her son. Liam Neeson as the magical tree/monster delivers a sublime motion-capture performance. The profound life lessons he imparts are bound to enlighten and strengthen you to face your ordeal.
( 4 / 5 )