“The Memoir of a Snail” is an enthralling 2024 Australian stop motion animated film wherein Adam Elliot’s direction consists of exhilarating twists and turns. His previous works include Harvie Krumpet and Mary and Max – both of which received significant acclaim. The talented Sarah Snook, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Eric Bana, and Jacki Weaver voiced the characters.
Synopsis
The plot centers on Grace Pudel, a depressive lady who deals with thorny issues by collecting snails in shoeboxes, reading love stories, and keeping guinea pigs. Grace has to bear hardship starting with the fact that her twin brother Gilbert was separated from her in her youth, and she eventually lost both her parents and was left completely alone. However, things start looking up for Grace when she meets Pinky, an old lady who has lots of energy and is a little crazy. The connection makes Grace want to heal the wounds inflicted on her by life and never look back.
Cast and Crew
- Sarah Snook (Grace Pudel): Known for her role in the television series “Succession,” Snook brings depth to the character of Grace.
- Kodi Smit-McPhee (Gilbert Pudel): An Academy Award nominee for “The Power of the Dog,” Smit-McPhee voices Grace’s twin brother.
- Eric Bana (James the Magistrate): Reunites with Elliot after “Mary and Max,” contributing his voice to the film.
- Jacki Weaver (Pinky): A two-time Academy Award nominee, Weaver portrays the vivacious Pinky.
The film’s score, composed by Elena Kats-Chernin, has been noted for its significant contribution to the film’s emotional resonance.
Production Insights
It was eight long years, but “Memoir of a Snail” was completed, and Elliot’s firm desire towards handcrafted film-making was evident in this particular animation as well. The principle shooting was done in Melbourne, in May 2023, concentrating the director’s resources and time elegantly.
Critical Reception
The film opened on 10th June 2024 at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival and was awarded of the Cristal Award for Feature Film.
The film has been lauded for its powerful narrative and excellent animation. Peter Debruge of Variety praised Elliot’s commitment to ‘bleak but surprisingly heartfelt stories.’ And Stephanie Bunbury of Deadline found the film’s attempt of presenting the theme of man’s defect interesting.
Availability
émoires d’un escargot” or “The Memoir of a Snail” was shown in Australian cinemas beginning 17th of October 2024, and in U.S. theaters on the 25th of October 2024.
Recommendations
If you appreciate “Memoir of a Snail,” you might also enjoy:
- “Mary and Max” (2009): Another of Adam Elliot’s stop-motion films, exploring an unlikely pen-pal friendship.
- “Anomalisa” (2015): A stop-motion drama delving into themes of loneliness and human connection.
- “Isle of Dogs” (2018): Wes Anderson’s stop-motion film set in a dystopian future Japan, focusing on a boy’s search for his lost dog.
These films share thematic elements and showcase the unique storytelling potential of stop-motion animation.
