Stop-motion animation studio Laika have some classics under their belt, chief among them Coraline (2009). As good as that spooky flick is, there's arguably one better out there. Fantasy adventure Kubo and the Two Strings is Laika at its best. Thrilling, gorgeous to look at, and packs an emotional punch. This new 4K release provides the best method for rewatching a masterpiece.
Rooted in Japanese folklore and mythology, the one-eyed Kubo (Art Parkinson) is a storyteller who uses his shamisen to bring origami characters to life. He wows local village people with his narrative performances before needing to return home to his ailing mother (Charlize Theron) as the sun sets. The villainous Moon King (Ralph Fiennes), who took Kubo's eye, and his daughters Karasu and Washi (both played by Rooney Mara) can only hunt down Kubo at night. Of course, the young boy ends up staying out late when trying to spiritually communicate with his missing father Hanzo, and Kubo is sent on a quest to find Hanzo's armour.
What is immediately apparent is how good this still looks nearly 10 years on. Laika's stop-motion work is fluid and full of life, but the art direction works in tandem with the animation. Inspired by Japanese culture and art, the origami transformations, character designs and locations are distinct and beautiful. In 4K, you can appreciate the little details much more. Gravel moving under Kubo's shifting feet, a character subtly changing their facial expression.
The standout feature of Kubo and the Two Strings, however, is the story. Unlike typical Western animated features, the film doesn't shy away from thoughtful, more mature themes. Laika's exploration of death and memory is perfectly wrapped up in its point of the power of storytelling. This sentiment of memories being told as stories to keep loved ones alive is one that will bring tears to viewers old enough to understand. It's digestible even for young audiences, but there are still well-choreographed set pieces and devilishly fun frights for everyone to enjoy.
There is one criticism that needs to be addressed: the whitewashed cast. It's the sole element that hasn't aged well. Whilst it's a cast of talented performers who deliver great vocal work, the lack of Japanese talent leaves a sour taste. Having Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa and George Takei on board in bit parts feels just as offensive as not having any Japanese cast at all.
We've since had modern animated classics such as Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio (2022) and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022), but Kubo and the Two Strings still stands tall as Laika's best so far; even with the ignorant casting. It's everything you want from an animated feature: visually dazzling, emotionally resonant, and thrilling in its execution.
Kubo and the Two Strings is now available on 4K and Blu-ray.
