PARANORMAN is one of those films that took me by surprise. Renting it to watch with my nephew, while I was babysitting, I knew, being a LAIKA production it was gigot to be good, but I didn’t think it was going to be as fantastic as it is.

Norman Babcock is no ordinary eleven-year-old. Residing in the quaint town of Blithe Hollow, Massachusetts, he possesses a remarkable gift- the ability to communicate with the deceased, including his late grandmother. Though incredible, his extraordinary talent creates a sense of isolation that only his neighbor Neil seems to bridge. Even his sister Courtney (voiced by Anna Kendrick) struggles to understand him or his unique gift. 

However, everything takes a dramatic turn one fateful night, when an ancient curse from a long-dead witch triggers a full scale zombie resurrection. He’s the only one that can save his home, his family, and his only friend – and to do so, he must muster all his courage and compassion.

In addition to Kendrick, the film also features the voice talents of Kodi Smit-McPhee, Casey Affleck, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, Jeff Garlin, John Goodman, and one of my absolute favorites, Tempestt Bledsoe.

Originally released in 2012, the film has seen several releases to home media, including a collectible steel book release through Shout Factory. With an aspect ratio of 1.85:1, the film, clocking in at 92 minutes, is presented in glorious HD and a stunning 4K restoration. The set includes audio presented in English (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1) with French and Spanish subtitles. 

Bonus Content:

  • Dolby Atmos 7.1 Mix
  • Inside LAIKA: Discovering the Characters and Effects of ParaNorman Featuring Rare Test Footage
  • Inside LAIKA: Revisiting the Puppets with LAIKA’s Animation Team
  • Feature-Length Storyboards
  • Character, Concept Art and Behind-the-Scenes Photo Galleries
  • Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Chris Butler and Co-Director Sam Fell
  • Peering Through the Veil
  • Original Featurettes
  • Art & Essay Mini-Book

In addition to Shout Factor’s official store you can also purchase the film through Amazon. There will be more LAIKA reviews soon so…

Stay Tuned!