A Monster Calls (Film)

Released in 2016, A Monster Calls presents a story that navigates themes of childhood, loss, and imagination. Adapted from Patrick Ness’s novel, the film blends elements of young adult literature with emotionally driven storytelling. The film creates a dialogue between cinema and children's literature with its visual effects, symbolic narrative and stylistic choices.

Plot

The film follows 13-year-old Conor O'Malley, who is coping with his mother’s serious illness. Conor also faces bullying at school and struggles with internal fears. At this point, a creature resembling a "monster" from a large yew tree near his home begins visiting him every night at 12:07. The monster tells Conor that it will share three stories, after which Conor must reveal his own truth. These stories symbolically represent Conor’s emotional challenges and unresolved thoughts. Over time, Conor gradually confronts the reality he has been avoiding through his imagination.

Cast

• Conor O'Malley – Lewis MacDougall: The main character, a boy dealing with his mother's illness and emotional conflicts.
• Lizzie (Mother) – Felicity Jones: Conor’s mother, who tries to remain close to her son while undergoing treatment.
• Grandmother – Sigourney Weaver: A strict and emotionally distant figure who assumes a protective role toward Conor.
• Monster (Voice) – Liam Neeson: The monster, a giant being made from the yew tree, is a reflection of Conor’s subconscious.
• Father – Toby Kebbell: The distant father is a figure whose absence Conor feels in his life.

Direction and Cinematography

Directed by Juan Antonio Bayona, the film integrates visual techniques with emotional storytelling. Special effects and animation sequences emphasize the narrative’s fantastical elements. In particular, the monster’s appearances are designed to stand out both visually and sonically.

Cinematographically, the film employs dim and misty tones to create a somber atmosphere. Transitions between scenes often merge animation with live action. The ink-style animation used during the monster’s stories adds an abstract visual layer that aligns with the film’s thematic concerns.

Themes and Critiques

A Monster Calls addresses themes such as childhood trauma, grief, the process of acceptance, and emotional development. It incorporates a fairy tale-like structure as a medium to express and process complex emotions.

Critics have noted the film’s visual presentation and Liam Neeson’s voice acting. Some viewers, however, have remarked on the film’s slow pacing. Nevertheless, the narrative's emotional content resonates with audiences, particularly younger viewers and parents.

Commercial Success and Awards

With a production budget of approximately $43 million, the film earned over $47 million globally. It received recognition at various international film festivals and awards. At the 31st Goya Awards in 2017, it was nominated in 12 categories and won several, including Best Director, Best Visual Effects, Best Art Direction, Best Production Design, Best Sound, and Best Makeup and Hair Design.