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Based on an original story, “Song of the Sea” is an Irish animated fantasy film about Irish folklore. Director Tomm Moore does an excellent transformation of sea creatures into humanlike characters that play an integral role in the childhood of Saoirse and Ben, who as siblings bond together through music and fairytales after the loss of their mother during childbirth. In the beginning, big brother Ben and his dog Cu (koo), seem to struggle with the loss of Ben’s mother and the addition of pesky little sister, Saoirse who steals all the attention due to not being able to speak.
Adding to that burden is the fact that his father who was equally unprepared for the death of his wife, has all but deserted his son and daughter while trying to find a coping mechanism. After a few unfortunate incidents, Ben’s paternal grandmother steps in to save the day by rescuing the kids and offering them a better upbringing at her house without Kou. Comforted by the gift of an ancient seashell from their mother, along with a book of “Mum’s Stories,” Ben and Saoirse set out on their own, determined to get back to Cu and their father.
In the midst of the journey, the fairytale creatures from the stories come to life and help solve the mystery behind their mother’s disappearance and Saoirse’s voice. In the end, for a brief moment, the family is united together just long enough to understand why they must be apart. While the story itself is worthy of an Oscar, the telling of it is slow and painful. Children, however, will enjoy it as the picturesque artwork and fairytale magic more than makes up for it.
Opens Friday, Feb. 13th at the Angelika Dallas & Angelika Plano
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