Based on the Celtic legend of selkies – a female fairy seal who lives among us as a human – this beautifully animated adventure tells the story of a young boy named Ben (Rawle) who lives with his father (Gleeson) and mute little sister Saoirse on an island off the coast of Ireland. Taken away from their seaside home by their grandmother (Flanagan) to the city of Dublin, the children set off to return home to their father and the sea that they love, and along they way discover what a magical creature Saoirse really is.
With a perilous journey that includes meeting faeries who tell them of an owl witch who steals feelings and turns creatures into stone, this offers drama and adventure as it weaves a timeless tale mixing folklore and magic with the importance of family. It’s an adorable story for all ages – not just kids – that is made all the more enjoyable thanks to the gorgeous animation that deservedly won it an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Movie in 2015. Simply lovely.
Is Song Of The Sea suitable for kids? Here are our parents’ notes...
Younger viewers (under age 7) may find some scenes upsetting when the children are in danger.
They will be especially scared by Macha the Owl Witch and the tense climax of the film.
If you like this, why not try: Spirited Away, The Secret Of Roan Inish, Princess Mononoke, Howl's Moving Castle, Into The West,