Coraline

| 2009

Directed by: Henry Selick

Main Plot

"Coraline," directed by Henry Selick, follows a young girl named Coraline Jones who discovers a secret door in her new home that leads to a parallel universe. This alternate reality mirrors her own life but appears to be much better, with attentive parents and a more vibrant environment. However, Coraline soon realizes that this world harbors dark secrets and sinister intentions, particularly from the "Other Mother," who wants to keep her there forever. As the true nature of the parallel universe unfolds, Coraline must use her wits and bravery to navigate the dangers, rescue her real parents, and return to her own world. The film blends elements of fantasy and horror, emphasizing themes of courage, family, and the importance of appreciating one's own life.

Characters

  • Dakota Fanning voices Coraline Jones, a curious girl who discovers a parallel world with sinister secrets, ultimately confronting and overcoming its dangers to save her family.
  • Teri Hatcher voices the Other Mother, a sinister entity who lures Coraline into an alternate world, offering false affection to trap her.
  • John Hodgman voices Charlie Jones, Coraline's father, who is often preoccupied with work and unaware of the dangers his daughter faces in the alternate world.

Ending Explained

In the movie "Coraline," directed by Henry Selick, the climax unfolds as Coraline confronts the sinister Other Mother to rescue her real parents and the souls of three ghost children. After a tense and strategic game, Coraline outsmarts the Other Mother by finding the hidden eyes of the ghost children and her parents, who were trapped in a snow globe. She manages to escape the Other World, but the Other Mother's severed hand follows her. In the real world, Coraline's parents return, oblivious to their ordeal. Coraline, with the help of her friend Wybie, ultimately destroys the Other Mother's hand by throwing it down a well and sealing it, ensuring the Other World can no longer reach her. The film concludes with Coraline's newfound appreciation for her real life and her parents, as she helps organize a garden party, symbolizing her growth and the restoration of normalcy. The ghost children thank Coraline in a dream, affirming that their souls are finally at peace.

Henry Selick Animation Drama Family Dakota Fanning Teri Hatcher John Hodgman