Workshop 1: Unpacking Themes and Ideas?, Coraline Film Study

Theme/Idea - Something that links throughout the story

'Looks can be deceiving' - things aren't always what they seem

Example 1: The Beldam/The other Mother - She appears to be good in the start/but is revealed to be an evil soul devouring metal spider demon - Shows theme because the other mother changes gradually over time so that Coraline & audience don't notice - Important to the story because it helps the audience understand  Coralines choice when she realises that having everything perfect won't make her happy. 

Example 2: Other World vs Real World - The other world is a perfect web/trap to catch Coraline, whereas the real world is boring but safe - Shows theme because even though the other world seems better in every way, the real world is actually better/safer because it isn't a trap - Important to help audience understand why Coraline goes back to the real world.

S - tatement - In Coraline, themes and ideas are used effectively.

E - vidence - For instance, the theme 'Looks can be deceiving' is shown through the character 'Other Mother'. The 'Other Mother' starts kind, but is revealed to be a soul devouring demon

eX - planation -  This makes the audience feel that we shouldn't trust things or people that seem perfect at first glance.

eX - planation - this was done to make the audience feel weary or develop a sense of caution towards new situations. Coinciding with this is the use of colour to show the 'Other Mother' is becoming more evil. At the start she is is surrounded by warm colours that makes us feel safe, but by the end it is dark with neon green which makes her seem dangerous.

Y - our Link - This Theme is also shown through the changes in the "other world' as it is revealed to be a spider web designer to catch Coraline.