Stopmotion (2024) spoiler free review

Bring your nightmares to life. Stopmotion is a 2024 British live-action/adult animated psychological horror film directed by Robert Morgan, in his feature-length debut, and co-written by Morgan and Robin King. It had its world premiere at the Fantastic Fest on September 24, 2023 in Austin, Texas. The film was released in select theaters on February 23, 2024 in the United States by IFC Films and Shudder on May 31, 2024.

A talented stop-motion animator becomes consumed by the grotesque world of her horrifying creations with deadly results.

Film synopsis

The cast includes Aisling Franciosi as Ella Blake, Stella Gonet as Suzanne, Tom York as Tom, Caoilinn Springall as Little Girl, James Swanton as The Ash Man, Joshua J. Parker as Will, Jaz Hutchins as Brett, and Bridgitta Roy as Doctor.

My opinion

Due to arthritis, stop-motion animator Suzanne Blake is unable to use her hands. She enlists the help of her daughter Ella to finish her latest film, sometimes burdening Ella with excessive work. After Suzanne has a stroke and falls into a coma, Ella decides to complete the film independently. But after encountering a mysterious little girl with a new story to tell, fantasy and reality collide, leading Ella down a path of obsession and madness.

With a simple to understand and predictable story, the film remains on the surface of the plot. Although Aisling Franciosi’s performance is exceptional, the script is at an average level. The slow pace of the plot can make it boring, but the puppet design is exceptional. The fusion of stop motion with real action is harmonious and successful, resulting in a grotesque and effective visual appearance. The metaphor and psychological aspect lack exploration and impact, resulting in a predictable ending that leaves you halfway without the shock effect. Still, it is a film that deserves to be seen and appreciated, you may enjoy it more than expected.