I really enjoyed Kubo & the Two Strings! Set in medieval Japan, little Kubo takes care of his ailing mother and performs street theatre in his tiny seaside town, using origami and playing a magical shamisen (Japanese 3-string guitar). That is, until he unwittingly unleashes the vengeful Moon King...
It's an animated tale that doesn't fit neatly into 1 genre. I prefer to think of it as a drama that doesn't take itself very seriously, with a bit of sorcery and action, happiness and sadness, hope and fear.
Its PG rating may give the impression that it's for younger viewers, but it isn't. This is NOT Kung Fu Panda: all slapsticky and light-hearted fun. It's a bit darkish and/or serious overall for the very young, IMHO.
As I stated, I really dug this movie. The voice-actors all do great jobs, though it took me a long time to figure out who they were (I didn't know and that was part of the fun, so I won't tell!). The one guy I recognized right off the bat had a very small role (boo!).
But the reason this is a Must-see is its animation. It just got nominated for this year's animation Oscar. And I will be very upset if it doesn't win! It's spectacular! The best I've seen at times - nuanced and very cleverly thematic!
Highly recommended
