Humor and Heartbreak in Equal Measure

Read Time:3 Minute, 44 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Memoir of a Snail
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Genre: Animation, Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 34m
Director(s): Adam Elliot
Writer(s): Adam Elliot
Cast: Sarah Snook, Kodi Smit-Mcphee, Eric Bana, Magda Szubanski, Tony Armstrong, Paul Capsis, Bernie Clifford, Davey Thompson, Charlotte Belsey, Mason Litsos, Nick Cave, Jacki Weaver
Where To Watch: showing at the Melbourne International Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Set in the subdued scenery of 1970s Australia, MEMOIR OF A SNAIL unfolds as a compelling stop-motion narrative that navigates through the turbulent lives of twins Grace (Sarah Snook) and Gilbert (Kodi Smit-McPhee.) Directed by Adam Elliot, this film continues to elevate their work in the stop-motion genre, weaving the profound emotional journeys of its characters with impeccable visual artistry. The siblings' story begins with heartbreaking losses. Through their subsequent upheavals, it explores Grace's time in a foster home in Canberra and Gilbert's time in a house of strict religion.

Elliot's artistry shines as he crafts each frame with a level of detail that almost transcends the medium. The film eschews digital enhancement, opting for traditional stop-motion techniques that lend the story an authentic, tactile feel. The snail—Grace's chosen symbol of solace and a motif running throughout—emphasizes her deep longing for stability in a tumultuous world.

The vocal performances of Snook and Smit-McPhee infuse Grace and Gilbert with deeper layers of humanity. Snook, in particular, embodies Grace with a delicate vulnerability that tugs at the heartstrings. At the same time, Smit-McPhee's portrayal of Gilbert offers a stark contrast of resilience and grit, showing a protective fervor that supports his sister despite his adversities.

The settings and atmosphere in MEMOIR OF A SNAIL are crafted with meticulous attention to the historical and cultural context of 70s Australia, enhancing the narrative's authenticity. Each backdrop is infused with a vivid sense of place, from the bustling streets of Canberra to the isolated, conservative landscapes where Gilbert struggles to adapt. These environments are more than just backdrops; they influence the twins’ emotional landscapes and contribute to the film’s immersive atmosphere. This detailed attention to the setting reinforces the film's themes of isolation and connection, making the environments pivotal to the twins' transformation.

Elliot balances the scales of humor and tragedy, preventing the MEMOIR OF A SNAIL from sinking into despair. The film starts with a touchingly absurd scene—the loss of Grace's elderly friend, Pinky, voiced by Jacki Weaver, which sets up a narrative filled with fun and sorrow. The screenplay is peppered with sharp dialogue and richly textured character development, avoiding cliché and presenting the characters' quirks as endearing rather than caricatural.

Adding Weaver’s character to the cast gives the film a dose of whimsy and a crucial emotional anchor. Her role underscores the importance of unexpected friendships and their transformative power, highlighting the narrative's deep dive into personal empowerment and recovery themes.

MEMOIR OF A SNAIL is much more than just a viewing experience; it's a deep, reflective journey through the complexities of life and the resilience of the human spirit. This film is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the nuanced confluence of storytelling, character development, and groundbreaking animation techniques.

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[photo courtesy of MADMAN ENTERTAINMENT, WILD BUNCH, CHARADES, ARENA MEDIA, SCREEN AUSTRALIA]

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