With “The Boxtrolls,” Laika, the studio responsible for “Coraline” and “ParaNorman,” has once again struck gold. This charming claymation tale is fun and engaging from beginning to end and possesses the rare ability to appeal to adults and kids alike. 

Cheesebridge, the movie’s Victorian London-inspired setting, is a visually enthralling wonderland. The film features everything from decaying urban streets and odd-looking characters to gorgeous buildings and complex machines. Everything is lovingly crafted by passionate professionals who bring the imaginative world to life with seamless animation.  

The story is just as well-crafted as the visual elements. The movie follows Eggs, voiced by Isaac Hempstead-Wright, a human boy raised as a boxtroll, the unjustly hunted denizens of the passageways beneath the city. As he discovers his true human identity, Eggs must also save his adoptive family from a crazed exterminator voiced by Ben Kingsley.

As this enchanting story unfolds, there are plenty of opportunities for action and comedy. “The Boxtrolls” is filled with thrilling chases and fights as well as humor that simply works. The slapstick is funny for kids, but there’s also plenty of wit and satire for older viewers. 

The boxtrolls possess a surprising level of charm and charisma considering they speak their own language. With expressive faces, voices and body language, these creatures transcend the need for words and manage to be as memorable as the movie’s other characters. 

“The Boxtrolls” is an exceptional film with a richly envisioned and beautifully-presented world. The story set against this backdrop is involving and loaded with unique characters, breathtakingly complex action scenes and a quirky, warm-hearted nature that can rouse the adventurous spirit of even the most jaded viewer.