I have to admit, I wasn't a huge Will Vinton fan, but I was struck by some of his work. "Closed Mondays" was the first Vinton film I ever saw that didn't revolve around singing raisins, or other commercial characters.
There were some various TV specials, and the series I remember was the "PJ's" created by Eddie Murphy. Vinton was listed as Executive Producer on a few episodes.
(Street Poster I found years ago in L.A. Haven't seen anything else like it.)
I was saddened to learn later that his studio was bought out by Phil Knight of Nike shoes, and Vinton was forced out. Vinton Studios eventually became Laika.
(copyright Laika studios) It's mortals vs. the gods in Kubo and the Two Strings. An outcast boy whose music and stories that brings origami to life goes from hustling on the street to a real challenge when he learns more about his true origins.
Laika has got another winner here! The plot is a little vague at the beginning, but things are not what they seem, as Joseph Campbell might have once said, and that's good for the film. The stop motion is well done, almost looking like CG animation. Director Travis Knight and his crew didn't cut any corners on this film
The action, although theatrical, is intense, and I am still surprised (and annoyed) at parents bringing very small children in the cinema. Still, the story succeeds on concepts of being true to yourself, appreciating your parents, and your gifts.
Get a good seat! I'm looking forward to the Blue Ray already.
Postings of my art and animation work, along with observations on teaching, careers, media, technology, culture and a bit of geek stuff.
All material and images are copyright Ken Roskos, unless where otherwise noted. All rights reserved.
(copyright Laika studios)
