news-and-events__moon-man-632Famed for his distinctive illustrative style and shrewd social satire, children’s author Tomi Ungerer penned Moon Man in 1966 – and it’s a tale that has now been brought to life on the big screen by first-time filmmakers Stephan Schesch and Sarah Clara Weber. Remaining faithful to Ungerer’s distinguishable approach, Moon Man combines a touching story with an enchanting aesthetic, to form a simply delightful animation.

Despite being a great source of inspiration to children amongst the world, the man who lives in the moon is bored and in need of some company. So he decides to hitch a ride down to Earth, though his arrival is not met with the warmest of welcomes by the world’s egotistical, bloodthirsty President, who fears an alien invasion. However despite being exposed to all of the world’s natural beauty, the Moon Man’s disappearance means that children around the world are unable to sleep – and he must try and find a way home, before the President can get his hands on him.

Though there’s a voice cast catered to an English speaking audience – consisting of Michael McElhatton, Pat Laffan and Paul McLoone – the film’s French and German origins ensure this title has a surrealist whimsicality that could only come with a European production (an atmosphere enhanced by the alluring, gentle sound of the accordion accompanying this piece), while a droll, German wit compliments the magical narrative well. In fact, the soundtrack is fantastic throughout, particularly with the use of Louis Armstrong, whose music should be a compulsory addition to every single animated film.

The story is wonderful too, and a nice exploration of the notion that the moon is an omniscient presence of sorts, that brings the entire world together. There’s a subtle, satirical edge too – with a wonderfully crafted villain providing the film with a worthy antagonist. The only way he could have been improved had been if Alan Rickman was voicing him. Meanwhile there are shades of Wall-E to the Moon Man, in how he doesn’t really speak much, and has a naïve, simplistic understanding of the world. He doesn’t have quite as much heart nor affability as the aforementioned robot, though.

With an enchantment not too far removed from the works of Studio Ghibli, Moon Man is a quirky, heartwarming little number. That being said, it does feel somewhat padded out, dragging on as we reach the finale – as a film that may be better off as a short. Though it’s a mild blemish on an otherwise delightful production.

[Rating:3/5]

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