"The Boxtrolls," a 2014 animated fantasy film, enchants audiences with its unique blend of stop-motion animation and a heartwarming tale of acceptance. Directed by Graham Annable and Anthony Stacchi, the film introduces viewers to a subterranean world inhabited by quirky creatures known as Boxtrolls.
Release Date and Directors:
"The Boxtrolls" was released on September 26, 2014, and is co-directed by Graham Annable and Anthony Stacchi.
Synopsis:
Set in the fictional town of Cheesebridge, the story revolves around a young orphaned boy named Eggs, who has been raised by the Boxtrolls, a group of underground-dwelling creatures with boxes for clothing.
As the Boxtrolls face persecution from the town's villainous exterminator Archibald Snatcher, Eggs teams up with a spirited girl named Winnie to save his adopted family and uncover the truth about his origins. The film explores themes of family, identity, and the power of acceptance.
Significance, Themes, and Why You Should Watch:
"The Boxtrolls" stands out for its visually stunning stop-motion animation, bringing to life a whimsical and charming world. The film beautifully addresses themes of acceptance and the importance of embracing differences.
Beneath its fantastical exterior, "The Boxtrolls" delivers a powerful message about the strength of chosen families and the courage to be oneself. It's a delightful experience for audiences of all ages, combining humor, adventure, and heart.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
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Australia (AU):
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United Kingdom (GB):
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Germany (DE):
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Brazil (BR):
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Spain (ES):
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France (FR):
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Canada (CA):
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Production Details:
The film was directed by Graham Annable and Anthony Stacchi, with a screenplay by Irena Brignull and Adam Pava. Produced by Laika Entertainment, the stop-motion animation posed significant challenges, requiring meticulous attention to detail and months of intricate work.
Filming locations included the Laika studios in Oregon, where the magic of stop-motion animation was brought to life. The filmmakers faced the arduous task of creating the intricate world of Cheesebridge and designing the unique Boxtroll characters.
The budget for "The Boxtrolls" was estimated at $60 million. At the box office, the film grossed over $108 million worldwide.
Reception and Awards:
Critical Reception: Critics praised "The Boxtrolls" for its inventive animation, compelling storytelling, and thematic depth. The film's unique visual style and engaging narrative were particularly lauded.
Audience Reception: Audiences appreciated the film's charm and found its themes relatable. The endearing characters and captivating storyline resonated with viewers of all ages.
Awards and Nominations: "The Boxtrolls" received several award nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature. It also won the Annie Award for Outstanding Achievement in Character Animation.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- The stop-motion animation process for "The Boxtrolls" involved meticulously crafting each character and set, with some scenes requiring months of work for just a few seconds of footage.
- The Boxtrolls themselves are named after the types of boxes they wear, which reflect their personalities.
- The character design was inspired by the illustrations in Alan Snow's novel "Here Be Monsters!" on which the film is based.
- Sir Ben Kingsley, who voiced the antagonist Archibald Snatcher, delivered a memorable performance that added depth to the character.
"The Boxtrolls" is not just a visually captivating animated film but also a heartfelt exploration of acceptance and the power of community, making it a must-watch for animation enthusiasts and families alike.