LAIKA is a fascinating company. Located in Hillsboro, Oregon, the stop-motion animation studio produces films with a style panache few companies since Will Vinton Studios have been able accomplish. Since 2009, they have been bringing not only fantastical (and inclusive) stories to life. The studio’s first feature film, Coraline, adapted from the novel of the same name by the master of fantasy himself, Neil Gaiman, is one of their best.

After moving into a new house, Coraline Jones (Dakota Fanning) finds herself increasingly bored. To make things worse, her mother, Mel (Teri Hatcher), just doesn’t understand her. Then, one day, she finds a secret door that leads into another world. It’s similar to her own, with places and characters she recognizes, but everything is better—so much better—at least at first. 

Slowly, when this fantastical adventure turns dangerous, and her “other” mother tries to keep her forever. If Coraline ever wants to return to her real home and family, she will use every ounce of her wit. This epic animated adventure was not only directed by Henry Selick (The Nightmare Before Christmas, James and the Giant Peach), he also adapted it for the screen.

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, French and Spanish (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1) with subtitles available in all three languages. 

Bonus Content includes:

  • Dolby Atmos 7.1 Mix
  • Inside LAIKA—Discovering the Characters of Coraline Featuring Rare Test Footage
  • Inside LAIKA—Revisiting the Puppets with LAIKA’s Animation Team
  • Character, Concept Art and Behind-the-Scenes Photo Galleries
  • Audio Commentary with Director Henry Selick and Composer Bruno Coulais
  • The Making of Coraline
  • Original Featurettes
  • Deleted Scenes
  • Feature-Length Storyboards
  • Art & Essay Mini-Book

There will be more LAIKA reviews soon so…

Stay Tuned!