Coraline: Her Handmade World

Trailer for 'Coraline', via YouTube

I hadn't heard of Neil Gaiman's children's book Coraline before, but now a movie version has been made I'm getting up to speed. I got the book out of the library and can't wait for the film's UK release (not til May!).

The story is a sort of sinister Alice In Wonderland - Coraline finds a door in her house which leads to a parallel world the same as her own, but seemingly better - she even has 'other' parents... who have buttons for eyes and may not be as friendly as they first seem...

There's a lot of buzz about the film in the crafting community, as it's a stop-motion animation with sets and characters all created by hand, including a cherry orchard made from pieces of popcorn sprayed pink!

The most gobsmacking creations are the pieces of miniature knitting by Althea Crome - see her in action here.

Coraline is directed by stop-motion supremo Henry Selick, (who did The Nightmare Before Christmas, and James And The Giant Peach) and has the most fantastic companion website where you can spend hours exploring Coraline's world(s). 

Watch the behind-the-scenes films in the Theatre, Create A Flower, Have Your Tea Leaves Read, or  - if you dare - Button Your Eyes!

Also:
Mouse Circus, the offical Neil Gaiman website for younger readers.