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While many of the animated films that dominate the awards conversation are studio-produced, there are usually a few indie contenders that shine through. This year, that title belongs to Adam Elliot’s devastatingMemoir of a Snail— the claymation filmmaker’s second feature afterMary and Max. While it can be incredibly difficult to watch at times, Elliot’s movie is poignant and consistently beautiful, making it a must-see for animation enthusiasts.
Memoir of a SnailReview
Memoir of a Snailtells the story of a woman who grew up after being separated from her twin brother in the foster care system, having to face all the joys and tragedies of life by herself or with the companionship of other kindred souls she meets along her journey. If it’s not clear, this isn’t your typical family-friendly animated film, having a much darker story and more mature themes than one might be used to from animation.
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Some audiences will be put off by the relentlessly tragic nature of the story. Every emotional beat feels earned — it never comes across as emotionally manipulative or tear-jerking just for the sake of being sad. Still, it’s not a particularly pleasant experience. Some may cry, many will feel thoroughly uncomfortable, and pretty much everyone will walk away feeling at least a little bad.
The many tragedies depicted in the movie allow Elliot to explore a large variety of themes and ideas. The film addresses everything from alcohol and substance abuse to body dysmorphia, crisis of faith, and homophobia. It’s a lot for a single movie to cover — especially one that’s just a little over an hour and a half long — but Elliot does a phenomenal job of capturing the complexity of sadness that each of these experiences entails.
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It’s clear that the film is, in some ways, autobiographical of the filmmaker’s own life. Of course, there are several changes made, but the story feels extremely personal nevertheless. As a memoir of sorts, this is an incredibly empathetic experience, giving audiences one of the most deeply humanistic protagonists in a while. Elliot also infuses the story with a memorable bunch of supporting characters, ranging from quirky and lovable to intimidatingly evil.
The lead performer of the movie isSarah Snook(Succession), whose role is primarily that of a narrator. Much of the film’s story is delivered through a voiceover, and while one might think that this would grow old quickly, Snook brings plenty of emotion to the role and feels incredibly dynamic. She’s an almost comforting presence amidst the many tragedies we bear witness to, enthralling the audience in the story.
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In addition to Snook,Memoir of a Snail’s ensemble is a who’s who of Australian A-listers. Kodi Smit-McPhee (The Power of the Dog), Eric Bana (Hulk), Jacki Weaver (Silver Linings Playbook), and even musician Nick Cave have roles in the movie. Although none of them has a particularly large amount of screen time, they make the most of their small roles and shine in their small but pivotal moments in the story.
One of the most impressive things aboutMemoir of a Snailis that it manages to feel so visually dynamic despite largely lacking color. Elliot’s style is intentionally drab, echoing the bleak tone of the story. However, drab does not mean one-note. Despite the bleak and grimy world that Elliot depicts, there are still flashes of optimism and beauty to be found, inspiring a necessary feeling of hope by the end.
IsMemoir of a Snailworth watching?
By no means isMemoir of a Snaila happy film, yet for as oppressively depressing as it can be, it’s still a moving, necessary experience. Adam Elliot has used the animation medium to tell a vulnerable story the likes of which we don’t often see in this format, and the result is one of the most innovative movies of the year.
Memoir of a Snailhits theaters on October 25.
Memoir of a Snail Review — Poignant Animated Film is Devastatingly Beautiful
Sean Boelman
Managing Editor for Film and TV
Articles Published :441
Sean is the Managing Editor for Film and Television, working to determine editorial strategy for the critics team. He has been on the FandomWire team since 2022.In addition to writing reviews himself, Sean helps match writers on the FandomWire team with assignments that best fit their interests and expertise.
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animatedclaymationEric BanaJacki Weaversarah snook
