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A review by spenkevich
Coraline (Graphic Novel) by P. Craig Russell
3.0
In all fairness to this graphic adaptation, I read this in a world where a perfect visual adaptation already exists from the incredible Henry Selick. I absolutely adore Neil Gaiman’s Coraline (read my review here). The story is a masterful mix of menacing and magical, driving us fearfully along through a story that is ultimately heartwarming and empowering. Coraline Jones is one of my favorite heroines of children’s fiction as well. This adaptation from [a:P. Craig Russell|38328|P. Craig Russell|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1416845206p2/38328.jpg] captures the original story quite well in terms of plot, but when it comes to art and atmosphere I found it rather flat and lifeless, missing that dark, gloomy gothic aspect that Selick expertly tapped into and blended up with whimsical grotesqueries. Gaiman must have some trust in him, as they have worked together on several occasions, so perhaps its just me. This is a fun adaptation still that would be perfect for hesitant readers and is just another enjoyable way to revisit Gaiman’s classic tale, but of the various versions this one feels lackluster comparatively.
I’m sorry but I’m actually not done ranting about the art. Just because I want to read about and see a lifeless corpse, doesn’t mean I want to look at art that feels like one. The colors seem very bland and just aren’t that pleasing of a palette. Nothing really pops, everything feels a bit dull and its almost too bright for the tale. Selick plunged us into a velvety darkness, but nothing in this gives you the feeling of floorboards creaking or eyes watching you from the shadows. I will admit Other Mother is terrifying as she should be but just…could be better?
I mean it’s fine, it’s whatever, it just has a rather 90s vibe but not in a good way. Still it is such a delightful and eerie tale that you can’t help but be pulled along rooting for Coraline.
⅗
I’m sorry but I’m actually not done ranting about the art. Just because I want to read about and see a lifeless corpse, doesn’t mean I want to look at art that feels like one. The colors seem very bland and just aren’t that pleasing of a palette. Nothing really pops, everything feels a bit dull and its almost too bright for the tale. Selick plunged us into a velvety darkness, but nothing in this gives you the feeling of floorboards creaking or eyes watching you from the shadows. I will admit Other Mother is terrifying as she should be but just…could be better?
I mean it’s fine, it’s whatever, it just has a rather 90s vibe but not in a good way. Still it is such a delightful and eerie tale that you can’t help but be pulled along rooting for Coraline.
⅗