by CJ Mac

Created on: February 20, 2009

Coraline: One Parent's Perspective

Hailed as enchanting and visually stunning, Henry Selick's "Coraline," leaves little to imagination, flooding minds of young viewers with adult themes inappropriate for PG rated films. Children excited to witness an "off-kilter fantastical adventure" are in for a treat. Parents, on the other hand, may find it an awkward viewing experience.

Adapted from the Neil Gaiman book, "Coraline" tells the story of a young girl who craves attention and affection from her parents. The character and her family move from Pontiac, Michigan, to a new home in Oregon at the Pink Palace Apartments. As writers for a gardening publication, her parents are consumed by deadlines and editing. Coraline feels neglected by their career demands. Depressed by dreary weather and suffering from boredom, she discovers a small, locked door, which eventually leads to her other, seemingly better life.

The story follows the themes of curiosity and disillusionment. Coraline, like many children, feels displaced by parental commitments. She longs to be the center of attention. One fateful evening, with the help of an enchanted mouse, she finds a parallel universe behind a small door in the new apartment. In this reality she discovers a world that is similar, yet better than her own. With the exception of button eyes, her "other" parents are upgraded versions of the originals: doting, amusing, and attentive.

In a dark, harrowing, twist of events, Coraline discovers her alternate reality is a fraud. She is forced to choose between her real parents and her "other" mother. To win her freedom and rescue the souls of children who suffered the same fate, she must find their "eyes" hidden throughout the strange, unpredictable world. Despite the trappings of beautiful surroundings and constant amusement, she discerns that reality is better than fantasy. She ultimately discovers, "Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it."

According to the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), films with a PG rating may include some profanity, depictions of violence, or brief nudity. "Coraline" certainly meets that criterion. However, few parents expect animated films to flaunt sexualized characters. In this case, an obese, overly voluptuous retired actress, performing on stage in sequined pasties and matching thong. Although the segment is short in duration, it is noteworthy. Other unusual moments, like former beloved dogs mounted on a wall for posterity, actually fit into

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