CORALINE — ★★★1/2 — Animated feature starring the voices of Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher and others; shown in both the 2-D and 3-D format; rated PG (violence, vulgarity, slurs, nude artwork); in general release
The movie "Coraline" is pretty creepy. To be honest, it verges on being a little disturbing.
In fact, it's probably more creepy and disturbing than any other supposed kids film that's been released theatrically since 2005's "Monster House."
But that's pretty much in keeping with the tone and style of its source material, Neil Gaiman's acclaimed, best-selling children's book. It was a little creepy and disturbing itself.
And while this stop-motion-animated fantasy film might be a little much for some really sensitive young viewers, it's visually inventive and captivating. There are at least as many "wow" moments as there are chuckle-worthy ones.
The title character is Coraline Jones (voiced by Dakota Fanning). She's an inquisitive young girl who's bored by her surroundings in rainy Oregon.
It doesn't help that Coraline's parents (the voices of Teri Hatcher and John Hodgman) seem to be too busy with their projects to pay attention to her.
So Coraline has begun exploring her new surroundings, including the floor of the apartment building her family occupies.
She's especially curious about a tiny, wallpapered-over door, which, it turns out, leads to an alternate world — one with its own versions of her parents and neighbors.
However, they also have buttons for eyes, which might be the first clue that there's something seriously wrong there.
"Coraline" is being shown in both the 2-D and 3-D formats, but it's highly recommended that audiences view the film in the latter one. While there are things that pop out at you, it's very well done and only makes the experience more fun. It's even worth sticking through the closing credits sequence.
Obviously, there are some who might not enjoy this film's darker material (director Henry Selick also made "Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas" and "James and the Giant Peach"). But it's not too dark that it becomes oppressive.
Selick also makes good use of French composer Bruno Coulais' wonderful musical score, as well as a new song by They Might Be Giants (an ear-catching ditty that can be heard in the newest trailers for the film).
And as a voice performer, Fanning has a softer and warmer presence that she normally has in her live-action roles. (Either she's maturing as an actress or perhaps she's best heard and not seen.)
In support, voice cast members Hatcher, Hodgman, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Keith David and Ian McShane all get their turns to shine as well — in particular, Hatcher, who voices two very different characters.
"Coraline" is rated PG and features some violent content and imagery (creature attacks, slapstick, vehicular mayhem and child-in-peril elements), some crude humor and references, some involving bug goo and gore, derogatory language and slurs, and glimpses of nude artwork. Running time: 101 minutes.
E-mail: jeff@desnews.com