Thursday, December 20, 2012

The Snowman (1982) Review:


Out of all the Christmas specials that are placed onto the screen every year, I am amazed that this short film hasn't made into every family's home. As the first of several book adaptations, children's author, Raymond Briggs has created a touching story about a bond that a small boy creates with a very unlikely individual. That individual is "The Snowman". Even though there are only a few components to this film that make it worth the viewer’s time, they are all the equally effective. These components are the silent dialog, the music and the tone.

The Snowman & his creator
The fact that The Snowman does not have any dialog makes it that much more involving with its audience. Because there is no talking, the audience must only watch and hear the music to what's happening. Otherwise, no one will have any clue to what's happening. This is why that silence is so compelling. Although I did not mention it earlier, the animation is commendable to the up-most degree. The fact that the animation was kept EXACTLY the same as the wordless storybook shows that no change was wanted in the film adaptation. Thank you animation department!
Howard Blake
As for the music, the music creates the tone and both of these go hand in hand here. Howard Blake, the composer of the score, is a genius. His ability to set all the right tones and cues for each scene was magnificently constructed. This is particularly why this film was so impressive. Blake's score was innocent and moving. If you're a score collector, this is one piece you don't want to miss.

Raymond Brigg's children's storybook adaptation to the screen can melt the coldest of hearts. The whole 26 minutes worth will not be a waste.


Points Earned --> 10:10

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