Storytelling is a timeless art. Through endless mediums, from books to music to film, stories that capture pure human emotion stay with us, and bring audiences together. A Monster Calls, released in cinemas across the UK as 2017 began, is a prime example of one such story.
Based on the novel by Patrick Ness, who also wrote the screenplay, and directed by J. A. Bayona, A Monster Calls tells the story of 11-year-old Connor O’Malley (played by Lewis MacDougal) as he struggles to cope as his mother (Felicity Jones) deteriorates as a result of terminal cancer. At 12:07 every night, a monster (voiced by Liam Neeson) visits him, insisting that Connor listen to his stories, before he must tell his own.
In this way, A Monster Calls provides an honest portrayal of the raw emotions experienced when facing loss – especially by a child. MacDougal’s performance is apt and true, as one audience member said ‘MacDougal’s performance in particular is heart-wrenching,’ – he is a talented actor to be watched. The abstract form of this story only adds to its honesty, with the monster, also a yew tree, and his stories metaphors for various elements of grief. This is built upon in the stories’ presentation through animated artwork – showing them in relation to Connor’s emotions as he creates his own artwork.
One audience member said that ‘the emotional storyline is touching to everyone,’ this was emphasised by the moments of silence Bayona included following a few pivotal scenes, allowing each audience member to consider the story in relation to themselves. This highlights the attention to detail that went into the making of this film, a reminder of the significance one story can have.
On the whole, A Monster Calls is a unique and intimate story, which brings truth to every audience member individually. The storytelling is moving; by the end of the film there isn’t a dry eye in the audience. A Monster Calls is out in cinemas across the UK now, and it isn’t one to miss – just make sure to bring tissues!
By Emily Anderson, Rosebery School
