The Monkey King is an animated adventure comedy movie. Directed by Anthony Stacchi, the Netflix movie is inspired by the epic Ming Dynasty classic Journey to the West. In the film we follow the Monkey King’s journey to become immortal, he is assisted by a girl named Lin. So, if you loved The Monkey King here are some similar movies you could watch next.
Kung Fu Panda (Rent on Prime Video) Credit – DreamWorks Animations
Synopsis: Prepare for awesomeness with this delightful Academy Award®-nominated DreamWorks Animation film. Jack Black is the voice of Po, a noodle slurping dreamer who must embrace his true self-fuzzy flaws and all–in order to become the real Dragon Warrior. Filled with high-kicking humor, groundbreaking animation, and an all-star cast including Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen, Jackie Chan and Dustin Hoffman.
Raya and The Last Dragon (Disney+) Credit – Walt Disney Animation
Synopsis: Walt Disney Animation...
Kung Fu Panda (Rent on Prime Video) Credit – DreamWorks Animations
Synopsis: Prepare for awesomeness with this delightful Academy Award®-nominated DreamWorks Animation film. Jack Black is the voice of Po, a noodle slurping dreamer who must embrace his true self-fuzzy flaws and all–in order to become the real Dragon Warrior. Filled with high-kicking humor, groundbreaking animation, and an all-star cast including Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen, Jackie Chan and Dustin Hoffman.
Raya and The Last Dragon (Disney+) Credit – Walt Disney Animation
Synopsis: Walt Disney Animation...
- 8/18/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Kubo And The Two Strings Photo: Laika Kubo And The Two Strings, Itvx, streaming now
We've recently highlighted some of the foreign and indie films that are worth catching on ITV's free streaming service Itvx and it's worth noting that there's also some great films for kids on there. Among them is this entertaining and original stop-motion adventure with plenty of heart. It marked the directorial debut of Travis Knight - who is currently on pre-production for a film version of The Six Billion Dollar Man as well as another animation, Wildwood. This is the absorbing tale of a young boy (Art Parkinson) who goes on a dangerous quest with his talking monkey (Charlize Theron on no-nonsense vocals) and a samurai who is stuck in a bug outfit (Matthew McConnaughey). Using origami as inspiration for the animation, every inch of the film is a visual feast built around memorable...
We've recently highlighted some of the foreign and indie films that are worth catching on ITV's free streaming service Itvx and it's worth noting that there's also some great films for kids on there. Among them is this entertaining and original stop-motion adventure with plenty of heart. It marked the directorial debut of Travis Knight - who is currently on pre-production for a film version of The Six Billion Dollar Man as well as another animation, Wildwood. This is the absorbing tale of a young boy (Art Parkinson) who goes on a dangerous quest with his talking monkey (Charlize Theron on no-nonsense vocals) and a samurai who is stuck in a bug outfit (Matthew McConnaughey). Using origami as inspiration for the animation, every inch of the film is a visual feast built around memorable...
- 4/24/2023
- by Amber Wilkinson
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
New HBO epic House of the Dragon is transporting TV viewers back into the world of Game of Thrones.
The show, which is the first of the network’s planned spin-offs, is set almost 200 years before the events of Thrones and tells the story of the Targaryens.
Fans of Game of Thrones, which drew to a close in 2019, have been left feeling nostalgic for the series, thanks to the many references featured in the prequel’s season premiere.
Among the references are nods to Ned Stark (Sean Bean), Jaime lannister (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) and, of course, the Mother of Dragons herself, Daenerys (Emilia Clarke).
Below, we run through every reference and Easter egg to Game of Thrones featured in House of the Dragon episode one.
Viserys Targaryen
Viserys Targaryen is the charcater played by Paddy Considine. Game of Thrones will remember that, in season one, Harry Lloyd played a character named Viserys,...
The show, which is the first of the network’s planned spin-offs, is set almost 200 years before the events of Thrones and tells the story of the Targaryens.
Fans of Game of Thrones, which drew to a close in 2019, have been left feeling nostalgic for the series, thanks to the many references featured in the prequel’s season premiere.
Among the references are nods to Ned Stark (Sean Bean), Jaime lannister (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) and, of course, the Mother of Dragons herself, Daenerys (Emilia Clarke).
Below, we run through every reference and Easter egg to Game of Thrones featured in House of the Dragon episode one.
Viserys Targaryen
Viserys Targaryen is the charcater played by Paddy Considine. Game of Thrones will remember that, in season one, Harry Lloyd played a character named Viserys,...
- 8/22/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Laika has announced it will release four films with new Blu-ray and DVD editions: “Coraline” and “The Boxtrolls” on Aug. 31, followed by “ParaNorman” and “Kubo and the Two Strings” on Sept. 14.
The Laika editions feature new commemorative essays by journalists Peter Debruge (Variety), Ramin Zahed (Animation Magazine[/link]), Bill Desowitz (Indiewire) and Charles Solomon (author and former Los Angeles Times critic).
“Coraline,” based on the novella of the same name by Neil Gaiman, follows a young girl who walks through a secret door in her new home and discovers an alternate version of her life — along with alternate parents, who try to keep her forever.
The voice cast includes Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Keith David, John Hodgman, Robert Bailey Jr. and Ian McShane.
“The Boxtrolls” follows the Boxtrolls, perceived to be foul monsters who crawl out of the sewers at night and steal what the townspeople most...
The Laika editions feature new commemorative essays by journalists Peter Debruge (Variety), Ramin Zahed (Animation Magazine[/link]), Bill Desowitz (Indiewire) and Charles Solomon (author and former Los Angeles Times critic).
“Coraline,” based on the novella of the same name by Neil Gaiman, follows a young girl who walks through a secret door in her new home and discovers an alternate version of her life — along with alternate parents, who try to keep her forever.
The voice cast includes Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Keith David, John Hodgman, Robert Bailey Jr. and Ian McShane.
“The Boxtrolls” follows the Boxtrolls, perceived to be foul monsters who crawl out of the sewers at night and steal what the townspeople most...
- 8/20/2021
- by Jennifer Yuma
- Variety Film + TV
Laika will be pulling out all the stops this Sunday at The Landmark in Los Angeles with a day-long retrospective of the studio’s animated body of work. Admission is free for the event, which includes screenings of all five Laika feature films to date: Missing Link (2019), Kubo and the Two Strings (2016), The Boxtrolls (2014), ParaNorman (2012), and Coraline (2009).
The retrospective also features filmmaker stage discussions and a lobby exhibit of the expressive puppets and intricate dioramas that have brought international fame and accolades to the Laika workshop outside Portland, Oregon.
Below, the schedule for Sunday’s event at The Landmark:
10:30 am: Kubo and the Two Strings: A youngster must find the magic suit of armor worn by his late father to defeat a vengeful spirit. Charlize Theron, Matthew McConaughey, Art Parkinson, and George Takei lead the voice cast. With a post-film Q&a...
The retrospective also features filmmaker stage discussions and a lobby exhibit of the expressive puppets and intricate dioramas that have brought international fame and accolades to the Laika workshop outside Portland, Oregon.
Below, the schedule for Sunday’s event at The Landmark:
10:30 am: Kubo and the Two Strings: A youngster must find the magic suit of armor worn by his late father to defeat a vengeful spirit. Charlize Theron, Matthew McConaughey, Art Parkinson, and George Takei lead the voice cast. With a post-film Q&a...
- 10/23/2019
- by Geoff Boucher
- Deadline Film + TV
Award-winning animation studio Laika will present a special retrospective entitled Missing Link and the Evolution of Laika in Los Angeles on Oct. 27.
Taking place at The Landmark, the all-day event will begin at 10:30 a.m. with a screening of BAFTA Award-winning film “Kubo and the Two Strings” and close with an 8:45 p.m. showing of “The Box Trolls.” Other movies being screened throughout the day include “Missing Link,” starring Hugh Jackman and Zoe Saldana, “Coraline,” and “ParaNorman.” Additionally there will be two Q&a sessions with Laika president & CEO Travis Knight and writer-director Chris Butler.
View the complete schedule below.
10:30 a.m.
“Kubo and the Two Strings” (introduction by and post-screening Q&a with Laika president & CEO Travis Knight, director of “Kubo” and “Bumblebee”) Charlize Theron, Matthew McConaughey, Art Parkinson and George Takei lead an international voice cast in this story of a young boy named Kubo...
Taking place at The Landmark, the all-day event will begin at 10:30 a.m. with a screening of BAFTA Award-winning film “Kubo and the Two Strings” and close with an 8:45 p.m. showing of “The Box Trolls.” Other movies being screened throughout the day include “Missing Link,” starring Hugh Jackman and Zoe Saldana, “Coraline,” and “ParaNorman.” Additionally there will be two Q&a sessions with Laika president & CEO Travis Knight and writer-director Chris Butler.
View the complete schedule below.
10:30 a.m.
“Kubo and the Two Strings” (introduction by and post-screening Q&a with Laika president & CEO Travis Knight, director of “Kubo” and “Bumblebee”) Charlize Theron, Matthew McConaughey, Art Parkinson and George Takei lead an international voice cast in this story of a young boy named Kubo...
- 10/22/2019
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
The eighth and final season of “Game of Thrones” premieres April 14, which means this fall will be its last hurrah at the Emmys. The epic fantasy is already a three-time winner for Best Drama Series and the most awarded primetime drama or comedy series in history, but one member of the cast who hasn’t been invited to the party yet is Sophie Turner. Will she finally get her due this year? Goodness knows she has already been through enough.
Turner plays Sansa Stark, who has survived despite the calamities that have befallen her family. Her father Ned (Sean Bean) was beheaded. Then her brother Robb (Richard Madden) and mother Catelyn (Michelle Fairley) were assassinated at the Red Wedding. Even her younger brother Rickon (Art Parkinson) was murdered. The rest of her family was scattered until recent seasons brought the survivors back together.
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Turner plays Sansa Stark, who has survived despite the calamities that have befallen her family. Her father Ned (Sean Bean) was beheaded. Then her brother Robb (Richard Madden) and mother Catelyn (Michelle Fairley) were assassinated at the Red Wedding. Even her younger brother Rickon (Art Parkinson) was murdered. The rest of her family was scattered until recent seasons brought the survivors back together.
Sign UPfor Gold Derby’s free newsletter...
- 3/18/2019
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Peta criticise decision by producers of Zoo, based on a real-life attempt to save animals during the second world war
Animal rights campaigners People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) have called for a boycott of a new film about a real-life attempt to save animals from Belfast Zoo during the second world war.
Zoo, written and directed by Colin McIvor and starring Art Parkinson, Penelope Wilton and Toby Jones, is about a 12-year-old boy who rescues a baby elephant from the zoo during the Belfast blitz after the ministry of defence ordered them to be put down.
Animal rights campaigners People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) have called for a boycott of a new film about a real-life attempt to save animals from Belfast Zoo during the second world war.
Zoo, written and directed by Colin McIvor and starring Art Parkinson, Penelope Wilton and Toby Jones, is about a 12-year-old boy who rescues a baby elephant from the zoo during the Belfast blitz after the ministry of defence ordered them to be put down.
- 6/25/2018
- by Guardian film
- The Guardian - Film News
Taking peculiar advantage of the old disaster-movie rule that audiences care more about whether a single dog lives or dies than they do about the fates of people, “Zoo” amplifies the horrors of the Luftwaffe air raids on Belfast during World War II by focusing not on human casualties but on what becomes of the animals trapped at the local zoo. Writer-director Colin McIvor adapts the true-ish story of how a handful of citizens came to the rescue of a baby elephant into an unlikely family film, one that will delight the kids (who see themselves portrayed as heroes) while leaving parents with a lot of explaining to do.
On one hand, they’ll have to reconcile the children’s heroic actions with the fact that they appear to be disobeying adults at every turn. Trickier still, the film hinges on a seemingly cruel edict, issued by the British Ministry of Public Security,...
On one hand, they’ll have to reconcile the children’s heroic actions with the fact that they appear to be disobeying adults at every turn. Trickier still, the film hinges on a seemingly cruel edict, issued by the British Ministry of Public Security,...
- 6/9/2018
- by Peter Debruge
- Variety Film + TV
After premiering at the 2017 Edinburgh International Film Festival, where it was also nominated for the prestigious Michael Powell Award, we have a first look at the trailer and poster for Edie.
Also in trailers – Game of Thrones, Art Parkinson battles authorities in a bid to save an Elephant in trailer for Zoo
Featuring a moving performance from Sheila Hancock (Cabaret, Entertaining Mr Sloane) in an inspiring tale, the story is a tale of triumph over adversity as Edie embarks on the adventure of a lifetime, set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands.
The film is directed by Simon Hunter and stars Sheila Hancock, Kevin Guthrie, Paul Brannigan, Amy Manson and Wendy Morgan.
Edie, out in UK cinemas from 25th May
Edie Official Synopsis
Meet Edith Moore (Sheila Hancock) an elderly woman, who in the aftermath of the death of her controlling husband, decides to fulfil a life-long dream...
Also in trailers – Game of Thrones, Art Parkinson battles authorities in a bid to save an Elephant in trailer for Zoo
Featuring a moving performance from Sheila Hancock (Cabaret, Entertaining Mr Sloane) in an inspiring tale, the story is a tale of triumph over adversity as Edie embarks on the adventure of a lifetime, set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands.
The film is directed by Simon Hunter and stars Sheila Hancock, Kevin Guthrie, Paul Brannigan, Amy Manson and Wendy Morgan.
Edie, out in UK cinemas from 25th May
Edie Official Synopsis
Meet Edith Moore (Sheila Hancock) an elderly woman, who in the aftermath of the death of her controlling husband, decides to fulfil a life-long dream...
- 4/5/2018
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
MaryAnn’s quick take… A movie as thrillingly weird as its protagonist. We are totally enrapt by the wonder and the terror of her imagination, and the power of it to create joy and solace. I’m “biast” (pro): I’m desperate for movies about girls and women
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
I have not read the source material
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto) women’s participation in this film
(learn more about this)
I Kill Giants is not a fantasy movie. It’s a drama about fantasy: about the power of stories to help us understand our fears and cope with our anxieties and escape from our pain, at least for a little while. But in a rare creative conjunction, this movie is as thrillingly weird as its protagonist, 12-year-old Barbara Thorson (Madison Wolfe: The Conjuring 2, Joy). We have no doubt...
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
I have not read the source material
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto) women’s participation in this film
(learn more about this)
I Kill Giants is not a fantasy movie. It’s a drama about fantasy: about the power of stories to help us understand our fears and cope with our anxieties and escape from our pain, at least for a little while. But in a rare creative conjunction, this movie is as thrillingly weird as its protagonist, 12-year-old Barbara Thorson (Madison Wolfe: The Conjuring 2, Joy). We have no doubt...
- 3/28/2018
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
Samuel Goldwyn Films has taken the North American rights to Colin McIvor’s Zoo, a family film starring Game of Thrones actor Art Parkinson and Penelope Wilton.
The pic, also starring Toby Jones, is set for an early June theatrical release in the U.S. market, it was announced Monday. Based on a true story, the film follows Tom (Parkinson) and his misfit friends fighting to save Buster the baby elephant during the air raids on Belfast in 1941.
"This is a film the whole family can enjoy together. In my house, it is universally loved from my kids to their grandparents,”...
The pic, also starring Toby Jones, is set for an early June theatrical release in the U.S. market, it was announced Monday. Based on a true story, the film follows Tom (Parkinson) and his misfit friends fighting to save Buster the baby elephant during the air raids on Belfast in 1941.
"This is a film the whole family can enjoy together. In my house, it is universally loved from my kids to their grandparents,”...
- 3/26/2018
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Samuel Goldwyn Films has picked up the North American distribution rights to Zoo, a based-on-a-true-story family film written and directed by Colin McIvor. It stars Art Parkinson (Game of Thrones) as Tom who, along with his misfit friends, fights to save Buster the baby elephant during the air raids on Belfast in 1941. Penelope Wilton (The Bfg) and Toby Jones (Captain America: The First Avenger) co-star in the film, which is slated for a theatrical and VOD release early…...
- 3/26/2018
- Deadline
Metro International Entertainment handles international sales.
Samuel Goldwyn Films has acquired North American rights to Colin McIvor’s family adventure Zoo.
Art Parkinson, Penelope Wilton, and Toby Jones star in the story of friends during the Second World War who fight to save a baby elephant during the Belfast Blitz bombings in 1941.
Katy Jackson and John Leslie of Wee Buns produced alongside Dominic Wright, and Jacqueline Kerrin at Ripple World Productions. Metro International Entertainment handles international sales.
Piccadilly Pictures’ Christopher Figg and Robert Whitehouse served as executive producers alongside Lisa Lambert and Kevin Jackson.
“This is a film the whole family can enjoy together,...
Samuel Goldwyn Films has acquired North American rights to Colin McIvor’s family adventure Zoo.
Art Parkinson, Penelope Wilton, and Toby Jones star in the story of friends during the Second World War who fight to save a baby elephant during the Belfast Blitz bombings in 1941.
Katy Jackson and John Leslie of Wee Buns produced alongside Dominic Wright, and Jacqueline Kerrin at Ripple World Productions. Metro International Entertainment handles international sales.
Piccadilly Pictures’ Christopher Figg and Robert Whitehouse served as executive producers alongside Lisa Lambert and Kevin Jackson.
“This is a film the whole family can enjoy together,...
- 3/26/2018
- by Jenn Sherman
- ScreenDaily
Entertainment One have revealed a new feel-good trailer for Colin McIvor directed movie, Zoo. Based on a true story of one boy’s fight to save a baby elephant from being killed during the war.
Also in trailers – Beautiful new trailer for Todd Haynes’ Wonderstruck is released
Also written by McIvor, the film stars Game of Thrones Art Parkinson, prolific actor, Toby Jones (Journey’s End) and Penelope Wilton (Best Exotic Marigold Hotel)
The film will be released in cinemas on 29th June 2018.
Zoo Official Synopsis
Zoo is the unforgettable true story of Buster the baby elephant, who was rescued from Belfast Zoo during the air raid bombings of 1941 by twelve-year-old Tom and his gang of unlikely friends.
The post Game of Thrones, Art Parkinson battles authorities in a bid to save an Elephant in trailer for Zoo appeared first on HeyUGuys.
Also in trailers – Beautiful new trailer for Todd Haynes’ Wonderstruck is released
Also written by McIvor, the film stars Game of Thrones Art Parkinson, prolific actor, Toby Jones (Journey’s End) and Penelope Wilton (Best Exotic Marigold Hotel)
The film will be released in cinemas on 29th June 2018.
Zoo Official Synopsis
Zoo is the unforgettable true story of Buster the baby elephant, who was rescued from Belfast Zoo during the air raid bombings of 1941 by twelve-year-old Tom and his gang of unlikely friends.
The post Game of Thrones, Art Parkinson battles authorities in a bid to save an Elephant in trailer for Zoo appeared first on HeyUGuys.
- 3/20/2018
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Game of Thrones has taken so much from the Stark family, but we have a feeling that no matter what other horrible things may happen in Westeros, nothing will be able to fully break them. Despite parents Ned and Catelyn being killed off a long time ago, as well as Robb (Richard Madden) and Rickon (Art Parkinson), their remaining children have never stopped loving each other (despite being separated by wars and thousands of miles). And it turns out that their bond is just as strong in real life. Sansa (Sophie Turner), Arya (Maisie Williams), Bran (Isaac Hempstead Wright), and "bastard" Jon Snow (Kit Harington) - who isn't Ned's son, but nobody really knows yet - love getting together outside of work. Whether they're hitting a red carpet or just relaxing on a Friday night, we love their sibling-like bond. Keep scrolling to see some of their best moments together...
- 12/15/2017
- by Caitlin Gallagher
- Popsugar.com
It's a House Stark reunion! The actors playing the four surviving members of the Stark family—Kit Harington (Jon Snow), Maisie Williams (Arya Stark), Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) and Isaac Hempstead Wright (Bran Stark) got together for an EW cover shoot. Spoiler alert! In the past sixth season of Game of Thrones, Jon and Sansa reunited for the first time since the debut season, when all four family members were separated, and he was made King of the North. Family patriarch Ned Stark (Sean Bean), matriarch Catelyn Stark (Michelle Fairley), their eldest son Robb Stark (Richard Madden) and youngest son Rickon Stark (Art Parkinson) have all been...
- 5/25/2017
- E! Online
The stop-motion animated film Kubo and the Two Strings tells the story of a young boy living in Edo period Japan. Kubo (Art Parkinson) supports himself and his ill mother (Charlize Theron), who is loosing touch with reality at an alarming rate, by telling stories. With the aide of a magic guitar passed on to […]
Source: uInterview
The post ‘Kubo And The Two Strings’ Blu-ray Review: Visually Arresting Adventure appeared first on uInterview.
Source: uInterview
The post ‘Kubo And The Two Strings’ Blu-ray Review: Visually Arresting Adventure appeared first on uInterview.
- 2/26/2017
- by Catherine Valdez
- Uinterview
Author: Competitions
To mark the release of Kubo and the Two Strings on 16th January, we’ve been given a Kubo poster signed by director Travis Knight to give away along with a Blu-ray copy. We also have Kubo and the Two Strings on Blu-ray for two runners up.
From acclaimed animation studio Laika comes an all-new epic adventure starring the voice talents of Academy Award® winners Charlize Theron (Mad Max: Fury Road) and Matthew McConaughey (Interstellar). Young Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson of “Game of Thrones”) mesmerizes the people in his village with his magical gift for spinning fantastical tales. When he accidentally summons an evil spirit seeking vengeance, Kubo journeys on an action-packed quest to solve the mystery of his fallen samurai father, discover his own magical powers, and reunite his family.
Please note: This competition is open to UK residents only
a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Small Print...
To mark the release of Kubo and the Two Strings on 16th January, we’ve been given a Kubo poster signed by director Travis Knight to give away along with a Blu-ray copy. We also have Kubo and the Two Strings on Blu-ray for two runners up.
From acclaimed animation studio Laika comes an all-new epic adventure starring the voice talents of Academy Award® winners Charlize Theron (Mad Max: Fury Road) and Matthew McConaughey (Interstellar). Young Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson of “Game of Thrones”) mesmerizes the people in his village with his magical gift for spinning fantastical tales. When he accidentally summons an evil spirit seeking vengeance, Kubo journeys on an action-packed quest to solve the mystery of his fallen samurai father, discover his own magical powers, and reunite his family.
Please note: This competition is open to UK residents only
a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Small Print...
- 1/10/2017
- by Competitions
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Our resident VOD expert tells you what's new to rent and/or own this week via various Digital HD providers such as cable Movies On Demand, Amazon, iTunes, Vudu, Google Play and, of course, Netflix. Cable Movies On Demand: Same-day-as-disc releases, older titles and pretheatrical Hell or High Water (action-thriller-drama; Jeff Bridges, Chris Pine, Ben Foster; rated R) War Dogs (drama; Jonah Hill, Miles Teller, Bradley Cooper; rated R) Kubo and the Two Strings (Animated fantasy-adventure; voices: Charlize Theron, Art Parkinson; rated PG) Mechanic: Resurrection (action; Jason Statham, Jessica Alba; rated R) Hands of Stone (action-drama; Robert De Niro, Edgar Ramirez; rated R) Evolution (sci-fi mystery; Max Brebant, Roxane Duran; premieres 11/25 on cable Mod and...
Read More...
Read More...
- 11/22/2016
- by Robert B. DeSalvo
- Movies.com
A young boy with a magical gift sets out on a thrilling quest to discover his family’s legacy in Laika’s newest film, Kubo And The Two Strings The latest masterpiece from the animation studio behind the Academy Award-nominated films Coraline, ParaNorman, and The Boxtrolls is now available on Blu-ray from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Hailed as “an exquisite, beautiful film,” (Scott Mantz, Access Hollywood) Kubo and the Two Strings has captivated audiences of all ages, earning an extraordinary 97% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, making it one of the best-reviewed films of the year!
Now you can own the Kubo And The Two Strings Blu-ray. We Are Movie Geeks has 8 copies to give away. All you have to do is leave a message below and tell us what your favorite film from Laika Studios is (Mine is Paranorman). It’s so easy!
We’ll pick the winner next week.
Now you can own the Kubo And The Two Strings Blu-ray. We Are Movie Geeks has 8 copies to give away. All you have to do is leave a message below and tell us what your favorite film from Laika Studios is (Mine is Paranorman). It’s so easy!
We’ll pick the winner next week.
- 11/22/2016
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Since 2009, the stop-motion animation studio Laika has made a name for itself by producing some of the most acclaimed animated films of the last few years. Their films “Coraline,” “ParaNorman” and “The Boxtrolls” all garnered acclaim for their visual style and all have been nominated for Oscars. Their latest film “Kubo and the Two Strings” follows a one-eyed boy who must locate a magical suit of armor in order to defeat a vengeful spirit. Before its home video release, check out an exclusive behind the scenes clip that delves inside the film’s costume design with Laika designer Deborah Cook.
Read More: Review: ‘Kubo And The Two Strings’ Is A Stop-Motion Masterpiece
The film was the directorial debut by Travis Knight, who previously worked as an animator on the three previous Laika films. It was written by Marc Haimes and Chris Butler, with a story by Haimes and Shannon Tindle.
Read More: Review: ‘Kubo And The Two Strings’ Is A Stop-Motion Masterpiece
The film was the directorial debut by Travis Knight, who previously worked as an animator on the three previous Laika films. It was written by Marc Haimes and Chris Butler, with a story by Haimes and Shannon Tindle.
- 11/10/2016
- by Vikram Murthi
- Indiewire
Gary Oldman stars as Winston Churchill for director Joe Wright in Darkest Hour, which has begun production in the U.K. Focus Features holds worldwide rights to the Working Title Films production as part of the company’s renewed global initiative.
Focus will release Darkest Hour domestically on November 24th, 2017 in the U.S. and Universal Pictures International (Upi) will distribute the film globally, beginning with the U.K. on December 29th, 2017.
The original screenplay of Darkest Hour is by Anthony McCarten, an Academy Award nominee and BAFTA Award winner as screenwriter of Focus and Working Title’s Best Picture Oscar nominee The Theory of Everything. Mr. McCarten and Academy Award nominee and BAFTA Award winner Lisa Bruce (The Theory of Everything) are producing Darkest Hour with Working Title co-chairs Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner, and BAFTA Award winner Douglas Urbanski (Nil by Mouth), reteaming with Focus and Working Title following Tinker,...
Focus will release Darkest Hour domestically on November 24th, 2017 in the U.S. and Universal Pictures International (Upi) will distribute the film globally, beginning with the U.K. on December 29th, 2017.
The original screenplay of Darkest Hour is by Anthony McCarten, an Academy Award nominee and BAFTA Award winner as screenwriter of Focus and Working Title’s Best Picture Oscar nominee The Theory of Everything. Mr. McCarten and Academy Award nominee and BAFTA Award winner Lisa Bruce (The Theory of Everything) are producing Darkest Hour with Working Title co-chairs Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner, and BAFTA Award winner Douglas Urbanski (Nil by Mouth), reteaming with Focus and Working Title following Tinker,...
- 11/8/2016
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Suicide Squad, Sausage Party and more top our list of movies to watch at home in NovemberSuicide Squad, Sausage Party and more top our list of movies to watch at home in NovemberGarrett McCormick11/1/2016 3:51:00 Pm Not only is November an amazing month to catch a movie at the Cineplex theatre, but the new releases in the Cineplex Store will have you glued to your couch for tons of A+ movie watching.
Not to mention, the weather is getting quite chilly so what's better than warming up by having a movie marathon with Cineplex's hot new releases? This month we have something for everyone: comedy, action, horror, animation and more!
Sausage Party - Available November 1st
The movie that changed the game when it comes to animated films is finally available to watch at home! The R-rated Sausage Party reveals what it's really like to be food, following food...
Not to mention, the weather is getting quite chilly so what's better than warming up by having a movie marathon with Cineplex's hot new releases? This month we have something for everyone: comedy, action, horror, animation and more!
Sausage Party - Available November 1st
The movie that changed the game when it comes to animated films is finally available to watch at home! The R-rated Sausage Party reveals what it's really like to be food, following food...
- 11/1/2016
- by Garrett McCormick
- Cineplex
Kubo and the Two Strings is on its way to your home, and you’re going to want to mark your calendar.
The film impressed audiences, and sits at an 84 on metacritic, and 97% fresh at RottenTomatoes. The consensus has been that the film is such a wonderfully magical tale, and so beautifully put together, that it can’t really get too much attention.
This is definitely one to own, but if the movie weren’t enough, the release is loaded with special features, including several behind-the-scenes featurettes that explore the bizarre and fascinating world of putting together a stop-motion film.
Catch all the info below, and be sure to snag this one as soon as you can.
A young boy with a magical gift sets out on a thrilling quest to discover his family’s legacy in Laika’s newest film, Kubo and the Two Strings. The latest masterpiece from...
The film impressed audiences, and sits at an 84 on metacritic, and 97% fresh at RottenTomatoes. The consensus has been that the film is such a wonderfully magical tale, and so beautifully put together, that it can’t really get too much attention.
This is definitely one to own, but if the movie weren’t enough, the release is loaded with special features, including several behind-the-scenes featurettes that explore the bizarre and fascinating world of putting together a stop-motion film.
Catch all the info below, and be sure to snag this one as soon as you can.
A young boy with a magical gift sets out on a thrilling quest to discover his family’s legacy in Laika’s newest film, Kubo and the Two Strings. The latest masterpiece from...
- 9/22/2016
- by Marc Eastman
- AreYouScreening.com
A young boy with a magical gift sets out on a thrilling quest to discover his family’s legacy in Laika’s newest film, Kubo And The Two Strings The latest masterpiece from the animation studio behind the Academy Award®-nominated films Coraline, ParaNorman, and The Boxtrolls comes to Digital HD on November 8, 2016 and Blu-ray™ 3D, Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand on November 22, 2016 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Hailed as “an exquisite, beautiful film,” (Scott Mantz, Access Hollywood) Kubo and the Two Strings has captivated audiences of all ages, earning an extraordinary 97% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, making it one of the best-reviewed films of the year!
From acclaimed animation studio Laika comes an all-new epic adventure starring the voice talents of Academy Award® winners Charlize Theron (Mad Max: Fury Road) and Matthew McConaughey (Interstellar). Young Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson of Game of Thrones) mesmerizes the...
From acclaimed animation studio Laika comes an all-new epic adventure starring the voice talents of Academy Award® winners Charlize Theron (Mad Max: Fury Road) and Matthew McConaughey (Interstellar). Young Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson of Game of Thrones) mesmerizes the...
- 9/21/2016
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
MaryAnn’s quick take…
Magic, music, and monsters come together to create a marvelous fairy tale that’s scary, sweet, and full of tough emotions that kids’ movies often avoid. I’m “biast” (pro): nothing
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
Magic, music, and monsters come together to create a marvelous new fairy tale in stop-motion house Laika’s stunning Kubo and the Two Strings. In a fantasy ancient Japan, 11-year-old Kubo (the voice of Art Parkinson: San Andreas) earns a few coins to care for his ailing mother by telling epic tales in the village square: with the strum of his lute, he can send origami papers flying into the air and folding themselves to animate and illustrate his stories. But even more magic lurks inside Kubo, which his grandfather, the evil Moon King (the voice of Ralph Fiennes: Hail,...
Magic, music, and monsters come together to create a marvelous fairy tale that’s scary, sweet, and full of tough emotions that kids’ movies often avoid. I’m “biast” (pro): nothing
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
Magic, music, and monsters come together to create a marvelous new fairy tale in stop-motion house Laika’s stunning Kubo and the Two Strings. In a fantasy ancient Japan, 11-year-old Kubo (the voice of Art Parkinson: San Andreas) earns a few coins to care for his ailing mother by telling epic tales in the village square: with the strum of his lute, he can send origami papers flying into the air and folding themselves to animate and illustrate his stories. But even more magic lurks inside Kubo, which his grandfather, the evil Moon King (the voice of Ralph Fiennes: Hail,...
- 9/12/2016
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
A Japanese boy summons vengeful spirits from his past in a seductive film that explores some big ideas
Even in a strong year for animation, this latest stop-motion picture from Laika (The Boxtrolls, Coraline) stands out for its complexity, seductively dark themes and the extraordinary beauty of its animation. This, the feature debut of Laika CEO Travis Knight, a seasoned animator and producer, succeeds on every level.
The story of Kubo (Art Parkinson), a boy with supernatural gifts who inadvertently summons vengeful spirits from his past, is set in a feudal Japan infused with enchantment. Kubo supports his ailing mother as a storyteller, his tales illustrated with bewitched origami figures that dance and act out the narratives he accompanies on a three-stringed lute. There is a lyrical quality to the writing, which is a refreshing alternative to the slapdash slang assault of many family films. One day Kubo ignores his...
Even in a strong year for animation, this latest stop-motion picture from Laika (The Boxtrolls, Coraline) stands out for its complexity, seductively dark themes and the extraordinary beauty of its animation. This, the feature debut of Laika CEO Travis Knight, a seasoned animator and producer, succeeds on every level.
The story of Kubo (Art Parkinson), a boy with supernatural gifts who inadvertently summons vengeful spirits from his past, is set in a feudal Japan infused with enchantment. Kubo supports his ailing mother as a storyteller, his tales illustrated with bewitched origami figures that dance and act out the narratives he accompanies on a three-stringed lute. There is a lyrical quality to the writing, which is a refreshing alternative to the slapdash slang assault of many family films. One day Kubo ignores his...
- 9/11/2016
- by Wendy Ide
- The Guardian - Film News
★★★★☆ A young boy with a magical shamisen and a penchant for origami may not seem like the obvious choice to head a sweeping adventure story but that's precisely who leads the charge in Laika's beautiful new stop-motion animation Kubo and the Two Strings. Take a step back, though, and it makes perfect sense. The setup is similar to their previous two hits, ParaNorman and Boxtrolls (a pre-adolescent hero teamed up with an assortment of oddballs on a quest) but in Kubo (Art Parkinson) the studio have a perfect protagonist, with the heart of a lion and a gift for telling stories with lovingly crafted props.
- 9/7/2016
- by CineVue
- CineVue
Ryan Lambie Published Date Friday, September 2, 2016 - 07:07
When writing about stop motion animated movies, it’s probably customary to bash out a few words about the way CGI has pushed older techniques to the fringes; how the hand-crafted aesthetics of stop-motion no longer seem to reach mass audiences in the way enjoyed by movies like Finding Dory, Minions or Zootropolis, with all their colour and digital slickness.
What’s interesting about animation studio Laika, however, is that it doesn’t stick slavishly to the traditions of stop motion filmmaking. In movies like Coraline, Paranorman and Box Trolls, it’s continually used cutting-edge technology like 3D printing and, yes, CGI to bring its stories to life. This is particularly true in Kubo And The Two Strings, an effervescent action fantasy which reads like an unexpectedly eccentric fusion of Alice In Wonderland and Japanese chanbara movie.
Here, CGI waves splash onto...
When writing about stop motion animated movies, it’s probably customary to bash out a few words about the way CGI has pushed older techniques to the fringes; how the hand-crafted aesthetics of stop-motion no longer seem to reach mass audiences in the way enjoyed by movies like Finding Dory, Minions or Zootropolis, with all their colour and digital slickness.
What’s interesting about animation studio Laika, however, is that it doesn’t stick slavishly to the traditions of stop motion filmmaking. In movies like Coraline, Paranorman and Box Trolls, it’s continually used cutting-edge technology like 3D printing and, yes, CGI to bring its stories to life. This is particularly true in Kubo And The Two Strings, an effervescent action fantasy which reads like an unexpectedly eccentric fusion of Alice In Wonderland and Japanese chanbara movie.
Here, CGI waves splash onto...
- 8/30/2016
- Den of Geek
Kubo and the Two Strings fills a void I didn’t realize had grown in the movie landscape until I was watching it— it’s an earnest adventure movie for all ages without a trace of camp. There’s very little winking at the audience, there are no topical references, and the celebrity voice actors even try not to sound like themselves. It is refreshingly straight-laced and serious about the mythology in a way that seems lost sometimes even among supposedly serious films. It’s easy to get lost in the wonder of the story because everything is pushing you to do exactly that. I’ve scarcely been so happy to be lost in a film.
Kubo is like a fairy tale that you forgot. It combines a litany of familiar tropes like evil elders, a bumbling but noble sidekick, and the enduring magical power of parental love and combines...
Kubo is like a fairy tale that you forgot. It combines a litany of familiar tropes like evil elders, a bumbling but noble sidekick, and the enduring magical power of parental love and combines...
- 8/27/2016
- by Arthur Tebbel
- Comicmix.com
This article was originally published in Nathaniel's column at Towleroad
Kubo and the Two Strings begins with Kubo's mother, navigating treacherous waves by slicing them in half with one melodramatic strum on her magical shamisen. The instrument has three strings, not two, but the title can wait. It's time to watch. Kubo's (Art Parkinson) narration warns us to do so closely.
"If you must blink, do it now."
That's a handy if redundant warning because who is going to blink during a Laika movie? The animated studio reliably crafts spectacularly intricate stop motion (with some CG boosting). When Kubo's mother splits the waves desperate to save the baby in her boat, it was hard not to think of Moses, twice over, both a babe in on the water and an ocean-parter.
Religiously suggestive folklore with magic turns out to be perfect fit for Laika because they always bring the eye popping images and movie magic.
Kubo and the Two Strings begins with Kubo's mother, navigating treacherous waves by slicing them in half with one melodramatic strum on her magical shamisen. The instrument has three strings, not two, but the title can wait. It's time to watch. Kubo's (Art Parkinson) narration warns us to do so closely.
"If you must blink, do it now."
That's a handy if redundant warning because who is going to blink during a Laika movie? The animated studio reliably crafts spectacularly intricate stop motion (with some CG boosting). When Kubo's mother splits the waves desperate to save the baby in her boat, it was hard not to think of Moses, twice over, both a babe in on the water and an ocean-parter.
Religiously suggestive folklore with magic turns out to be perfect fit for Laika because they always bring the eye popping images and movie magic.
- 8/22/2016
- by NATHANIEL R
- FilmExperience
“If you must blink, do it now,” Kubo warns the audience in the first seconds of Kubo and the Two Strings. One of the truest lines to ever open an animated movie as the latest offering from Laika (the stop-motion studio behind Coraline, ParaNorman, and The Boxtrolls) is by far their most stunningly beautiful and rewarding effort yet. Reminiscent of classic Pixar films, Kubo and the Two Strings is that rare animated film that tells an entertaining story and has deeper meanings behind it every time you peel off a layer. Kids will understand the surface level story, but adults will be moved by the themes of family and the importance of memories. Sure, this year’s Zootopia and Finding Dory were fine animated films that had important messages, but nothing in those movies hold a candle to how powerful Kubo and the Two Strings gets. Plus, this film boasts...
- 8/22/2016
- by Scott Davis
- CinemaNerdz
Our children are accustomed to stories beginning with the words “once upon a time.” Those words immediately alert our kids that something magical is about to be told, something maybe unreal or mystical. Something special. Kubo and the Two Strings begins with its version of “once upon a time” when Kubo, a boy voiced by Art Parkinson, boldly says, “If you must blink, do it now. Pay careful attention to everything you see no matter how unusual it may seem. If you...
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- 8/22/2016
- by affiliates@fandango.com
- Fandango
We’ve all been impressed with Laika Animation’s stop-motion technique, from Coraline to Paranorman, their films have dazzled us all, but the studio’s latest effort, Kubo and the Two Strings, is their most ambitious and beautiful film to date, a lush feast for the eyes coupled with a story that’s rich with culture. Not only that, but it also marks the directorial debut of Laika’s CEO, Travis Knight, and it’s clear this is a project that’s very close to his heart.
Kubo tells the story of a young Japanese boy (Art Parkinson) who takes care of his invalid mother in a cave above the sea. Every day, he goes into the local village and delights the denizens by telling elaborate stories about his late father, a great Samurai warrior, using paper origami figures and his magical musical instrument.
It’s not long though before...
Kubo tells the story of a young Japanese boy (Art Parkinson) who takes care of his invalid mother in a cave above the sea. Every day, he goes into the local village and delights the denizens by telling elaborate stories about his late father, a great Samurai warrior, using paper origami figures and his magical musical instrument.
It’s not long though before...
- 8/21/2016
- by Kit Bowen
- We Got This Covered
"If you must blink, do it now." Those words told in voiceover kickstart Kubo and the Two Strings, the latest effort from Laika, the stop-motion,animation studio that has brought us Coraline, ParaNorman, and The Boxtrolls. They are a production company whose films have blended majestic visuals with thoughtful, heartfelt stories resonating effortlessly with one another to deliver impressive works of cinematic art. Kubo is their strongest work to date, a powerful story at its core with some of the most magnificent animation bringing it to visual life. Easily a strong, early contender for animated film of the year, Kubo takes adventure storytelling as well as stop-motion animation to stirring, new heights raising the bar even higher in this particular field of filmmaking. The boy at the center of this story, the boy who delivers that opening line about keeping your eyes firmly locked to the screen, is young Kubo...
- 8/20/2016
- by Jeremy Kirk
- firstshowing.net
Laika (.Coraline,. .ParaNorman,. .The Boxtrolls.) is back with .Kubo and the Two Strings.. Let.s travel to ancient Japan to learn the story of a boy, a talking monkey, and a giant beetle!
Here's the official film synopsis:
Kubo and the Two Strings is an epic action-adventure set in a fantastical Japan from acclaimed animation studio Laika. Clever, kindhearted Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson of "Game of Thrones") ekes out a humble living, telling stories to the people of his seaside town including Hosato (George Takei), Akihiro (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa), and Kameyo (Academy Award nominee Brenda Vaccaro). But his relatively quiet existence is shattered when he accidentally summons a spirit from his past which storms down from the heavens to enforce an age-old vendetta. Now on the run, Kubo joins forces with Monkey (Academy Award winner Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Academy Award winner Matthew McConaughey), and sets out on a thrilling...
Here's the official film synopsis:
Kubo and the Two Strings is an epic action-adventure set in a fantastical Japan from acclaimed animation studio Laika. Clever, kindhearted Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson of "Game of Thrones") ekes out a humble living, telling stories to the people of his seaside town including Hosato (George Takei), Akihiro (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa), and Kameyo (Academy Award nominee Brenda Vaccaro). But his relatively quiet existence is shattered when he accidentally summons a spirit from his past which storms down from the heavens to enforce an age-old vendetta. Now on the run, Kubo joins forces with Monkey (Academy Award winner Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Academy Award winner Matthew McConaughey), and sets out on a thrilling...
- 8/20/2016
- by Manny
- Manny the Movie Guy
When Laika Entertainment emerged on the scene in 2009 with Coraline, moviegoers and critics had no clue what to expect. Specializing in stop-motion, the studio seemed to grasp the medium like few before it truly had, leveraging its surreal yet tangible style to craft stories like no one else in the industry. However, that film was also bolstered by the involvement of The Nightmare Before Christmas director Henry Selick and the Neil Gaiman source material. The financial and critical success of Coraline could just as easily been a one-off fluke, a case in which the upstart studio got lucky with its first feature.
Yet, in the years since Coraline, Laika has maintained a high standard for stop-motion animated films, following its debut with Paranorman and The Boxtrolls in 2012 and 2014, respectively. Both films performed modestly at the box office but received similar critical acclaim and awards recognition as their predecessor. Now Laika...
Yet, in the years since Coraline, Laika has maintained a high standard for stop-motion animated films, following its debut with Paranorman and The Boxtrolls in 2012 and 2014, respectively. Both films performed modestly at the box office but received similar critical acclaim and awards recognition as their predecessor. Now Laika...
- 8/20/2016
- by Robert Yaniz Jr.
- We Got This Covered
Chicago – In our short lives, what do we most need? It’s a hard question to answer sometimes, but the new animated film “Kubo and the Two Strings” does a memorable job of answering the query. The journey of Kubo, like Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz,” leads to a place where he needs to go.
Rating: 4.5/5.0
I don’t want to compare “Kubo” to anything else, although it was done by the same animation house (Laika Entertainment) that gave us “Coraline,” “ParaNorman” and “The Boxtrolls,” and succeeds by having a simple story akin to “Finding Dory.” But where it excels beyond all those examples is in a cumulative glory – it uses the simplicity of origami, Kabuki theater, the Samurai tradition and Japanese prints to establish a atmosphere that is sometimes stunning in its grace. While the character Kubo does have a typical good versus evil conundrum, the use of...
Rating: 4.5/5.0
I don’t want to compare “Kubo” to anything else, although it was done by the same animation house (Laika Entertainment) that gave us “Coraline,” “ParaNorman” and “The Boxtrolls,” and succeeds by having a simple story akin to “Finding Dory.” But where it excels beyond all those examples is in a cumulative glory – it uses the simplicity of origami, Kabuki theater, the Samurai tradition and Japanese prints to establish a atmosphere that is sometimes stunning in its grace. While the character Kubo does have a typical good versus evil conundrum, the use of...
- 8/19/2016
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Every week, a bevy of new releases (independent or otherwise), open in theaters. That’s why we created the Weekly Film Guide, filled with basic plot, personnel and cinema information for all of this week’s fresh offerings.
For August, we’ve also put together a list for the entire month. We’ve included this week’s list below, complete with information on screening locations for films in limited release.
See More: Here Are All the Upcoming Movies in Theaters for August 2016
Here are the films opening theatrically in the U.S. the week of Friday, August 19. All synopses provided by distributor unless listed otherwise.
Wide
Ben-Hur
Director: Timur Bekmambetov
Cast: Jack Huston, Morgan Freeman, Nazanin Boniadi, Rodrigo Santoro, Toby Kebbell
Synopsis: The epic story of Judah Ben-Hur (Jack Huston), a prince falsely accused of treason by his adopted brother Messala (Toby Kebbell), an officer in the Roman army. Stripped of his title,...
For August, we’ve also put together a list for the entire month. We’ve included this week’s list below, complete with information on screening locations for films in limited release.
See More: Here Are All the Upcoming Movies in Theaters for August 2016
Here are the films opening theatrically in the U.S. the week of Friday, August 19. All synopses provided by distributor unless listed otherwise.
Wide
Ben-Hur
Director: Timur Bekmambetov
Cast: Jack Huston, Morgan Freeman, Nazanin Boniadi, Rodrigo Santoro, Toby Kebbell
Synopsis: The epic story of Judah Ben-Hur (Jack Huston), a prince falsely accused of treason by his adopted brother Messala (Toby Kebbell), an officer in the Roman army. Stripped of his title,...
- 8/19/2016
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
Kubo and the Two Strings, animation studio Laika’s latest feature film, has wowed critics across the board. Directed by Travis Knight, Kubo and the Two Strings follows the titular character – a young Japanese storyteller voiced by Game of Thrones‘ Art Parkinson – who mistakenly wakes a spirit from his past. In his efforts to defeat […]
The post ‘Kubo And The Two Strings’ Review Roundup: Critics Love Laika’s Latest Animated Picture appeared first on uInterview.
The post ‘Kubo And The Two Strings’ Review Roundup: Critics Love Laika’s Latest Animated Picture appeared first on uInterview.
- 8/19/2016
- by Chelsea Regan
- Uinterview
With Kubo and the Two Strings, the CEO & President of Laika, Travis Knight, makes his feature directorial debut. Knight’s 3D stop-motion / CG hybrid follows a brave young hero named Kubo (Art Parkinson), as he goes on an epic quest to retrieve what’s needed to defeat Raiden the Moon King (Ralph Fiennes). Along for the samurai’s emotional […]
The post Interview: ‘Kubo and the Two Strings’ Director Travis Knight Breaks Down Some Stunning Sequences appeared first on /Film.
The post Interview: ‘Kubo and the Two Strings’ Director Travis Knight Breaks Down Some Stunning Sequences appeared first on /Film.
- 8/19/2016
- by Jack Giroux
- Slash Film
Stop-motion animation studio Laika seems poised to have another critical hit on their hands with this week’s new opener “Kubo and the Two Strings,” but the vividly imagined fantasy has picked up some criticism in regards its casting. The film is set in ancient Japan, yet it features a voice cast that is dominated by Caucasian actors, from Art Parkinson as the eponymous Kubo to Charlize Theron and Matthew McConaughey as two of his unlikely animal pals. Other cast members include Ralph Fiennes and Rooney Mara, with smaller parts filled by George Takei and Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa.
When asked about his potentially controversial casting by The Wrap, Laika president and first-time director Travis Knight, spoke candidly on the subject.
Read More: Review: ‘Kubo And The Two Strings’ Is A Stop-Motion Masterpiece
“I think people can take issue with any number of choices that we make,” Knight told the outlet. “I...
When asked about his potentially controversial casting by The Wrap, Laika president and first-time director Travis Knight, spoke candidly on the subject.
Read More: Review: ‘Kubo And The Two Strings’ Is A Stop-Motion Masterpiece
“I think people can take issue with any number of choices that we make,” Knight told the outlet. “I...
- 8/19/2016
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Laika’s new film, Kubo And The Two Strings opens tomorrow… but does it live up to their innovative reputation? It certainly does, with one slight (Eh… big. It’s pretty big…) problem.
Kubo And The Two Strings is the story of a magical young boy who finds himself on a mission to solve the mystery of his fallen warrior of a father, while avoiding evil spirits that will do anything to stop him. Along the way, young Kubo encounters Monkey (Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Matthew McConaughey) who help guide him on his journey. Together, the three of them set out to find out just what happened to the greatest samurai who ever lived, and finally find an end to his tale.
Let me start off by saying that the story of Kubo And The Two Strings is incredible. Set in Japan, the film honors the heritage and culture of...
Kubo And The Two Strings is the story of a magical young boy who finds himself on a mission to solve the mystery of his fallen warrior of a father, while avoiding evil spirits that will do anything to stop him. Along the way, young Kubo encounters Monkey (Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Matthew McConaughey) who help guide him on his journey. Together, the three of them set out to find out just what happened to the greatest samurai who ever lived, and finally find an end to his tale.
Let me start off by saying that the story of Kubo And The Two Strings is incredible. Set in Japan, the film honors the heritage and culture of...
- 8/19/2016
- by Melissa Howland
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
While I think all animation is a magic trick that remains just as impressive now as the first time I saw it as a child, there are certainly levels of difficulty, and stop-motion animation is a special kind of lunacy. I’ve visited enough stop-motion sets to be awed by the skill set it requires for someone to effectively bring a character to life using such a difficult and painstaking method. It is sincerely meant then as praise when I say that I can’t imagine the single-minded pursuit of vision it took to bring Kubo and the Two Strings to life, and Travis Knight is, indeed, a madman. Travis Knight is, like Megan Ellison, a rich kid doing something profoundly interesting with the position of privilege they found themselves in. Ellison has fascinating taste as a producer, and she’s become a sort of life raft for filmmakers who...
- 8/19/2016
- by Drew McWeeny
- Hitfix
Kubo And The Two Strings is an epic action-adventure set in a fantastical Japan from acclaimed animation studio Laika. Clever, kindhearted Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson of “Game of Thrones”) ekes out a humble living, telling stories to the people of his seaside town including Hosato (George Takei), Akihiro (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa), and Kameyo (Academy Award® nominee Brenda Vaccaro). But his relatively quiet existence is shattered when he accidentally summons a spirit from his past which storms down from the heavens to enforce an age-old vendetta. Recently, I got the chance to sit down with stars Art Parkinson, Charlize Theron and Matthew McConaughey, along with director Travis Knight, who also happens to be the President and CEO of Laika. Check out some of the highlights below!
Now on the run, Kubo joins forces with Monkey (Academy Award® winner Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Academy Award® winner Matthew McConaughey), and sets out on...
Now on the run, Kubo joins forces with Monkey (Academy Award® winner Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Academy Award® winner Matthew McConaughey), and sets out on...
- 8/19/2016
- by Melissa Howland
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
"If you must blink," a voice says over the soundtrack, "do it now." Consider this sound advice for anyone who's just entered the stop-motion world of this late-summer fantasy: Close your eyes for a nanosecond, and you might miss the sort of visually mind-blowing shot or part of a sweeping, how-the-hell-did-they-do-that set piece that causes Pavlovian salivating. Take, for example, the opening sequence that occurs right after that line, in which a woman in a boat is buffeted by angry, violent waves. What appears to be a giant tsunami starts...
- 8/18/2016
- Rollingstone.com
Deceased parents are (ironically) such a staple of family-friendly animation that it takes Kubo And The Two Strings some time to orient the audience to its variation on the orphaned child hero. Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson) isn’t alone in the world, but sometimes feels like it; he cares for his mother in their sparse cliffside home in ancient Japan. Kubo’s mother has moments of lucidity where she talks about his dead father and their history together, before retreating into a semi-catatonic state, relying on her son to cook for her and put her to bed. During the day, the one-eyed Kubo travels to a nearby village, where he puts on magically enhanced origami shows—an ongoing and oft-repeated story of heroism and derring-do without a clear ending.
During her more talkative moments, Kubo’s mother warns him not to stay in the village past sunset, and of...
During her more talkative moments, Kubo’s mother warns him not to stay in the village past sunset, and of...
- 8/18/2016
- by Jesse Hassenger
- avclub.com
Chicago – One of the great benefits of the new Golden Age of Animation has been the emergence of other studios…like Laika Entertainment, which has released “Coraline,” “ParaNorman” and “The Boxtrolls,” all nominated for Oscars. Travis Knight directs their latest stop-motion style animated film, “Kubo and the Two Strings.”
“Kubo” is rooted in Japanese samurai myth, but is a wholly new story. A baby loses an eye in a great battle, but his mother manages to save him. In exile, the two live near the ocean, and the baby grows to the boy Kubo, who supports his mother by going into the village with a magical string instrument. With it, he is able to conjure stories that use the style and look of paper folding origami. His magic is drawing attention, from both good and evil sorcery. Kubo ends up in a journey with a Monkey (voiced by Charlize Theron...
“Kubo” is rooted in Japanese samurai myth, but is a wholly new story. A baby loses an eye in a great battle, but his mother manages to save him. In exile, the two live near the ocean, and the baby grows to the boy Kubo, who supports his mother by going into the village with a magical string instrument. With it, he is able to conjure stories that use the style and look of paper folding origami. His magic is drawing attention, from both good and evil sorcery. Kubo ends up in a journey with a Monkey (voiced by Charlize Theron...
- 8/17/2016
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Passionately pursuing admirable goals, no matter what challenging obstacles stand in the way, is a fulfilling aspiration that the most determined heroes aim to realize. The inspirational young title protagonist in the upcoming animated fantasy film, ‘Kubo and the Two Strings,’ boldly relies on his courage to follow his dream of defeating his opposing enemies and protecting his life. Travis Knight, the president and CEO of the stop-motion animation studio, Laika, and up-and-coming actor, Art Parkinson, have also successfully obtained some of their ambitions by working on the family movie. Knight made the transition from working as a film animator to making his feature film directorial debut, while the 14-year-old [ Read More ]
The post Interview: Travis Knight and Art Parkinson Talk Kubo and the Two Strings (Exclusive) appeared first on Shockya.com.
The post Interview: Travis Knight and Art Parkinson Talk Kubo and the Two Strings (Exclusive) appeared first on Shockya.com.
- 8/17/2016
- by Karen Benardello
- ShockYa
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