The Dakota Fanning Dark Fantasy Horror Film Finding New Life On Streaming

By Steven Nelson | Published

Dive into the whimsically dark world of Coraline, a captivating stop-motion animated film streaming on Amazon Prime. Directed by the master of animation, Henry Selick, and based on the chilling novella by acclaimed author Neil Gaiman, Coraline offers a unique blend of childlike wonder and eerie, grown-up themes. At the center of this fantastical journey is Dakota Fanning, lending her voice to the titular character, making Coraline come alive with tenacity, curiosity, and heart. 

For those seeking a film that beautifully blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, with just the right hint of creepiness, Coraline is a must-watch.

Dakota Fanning is Coraline Jones who discovers a small door in her new home that leads to an alternate version of her own reality

In Coraline, Dakota Fanning stars as Coraline Jones, a spirited young girl with an insatiable sense of adventure. The story unfolds when Coraline and her parents relocate to a creaky old house in Oregon.

dakota fanning coraline

Feeling neglected by her busy parents, Dakota Fanning’s Coraline discovers a small door in their new home that seemingly leads to an alternate, more enchanting version of her own reality.

In this other world, everything appears perfect on the surface. The food is more delicious, the toys more vibrant, and her “Other” parents, with button eyes, are attentive and indulgent. They shower Dakota Fanning’s Coraline with all the attention she’s been yearning for in her real life.

However, as she delves deeper into this fantastical realm, Coraline realizes that the glimmering facade hides a sinister secret. The “Other” mother, a doppelganger of her real mother, aims to keep Coraline in this parallel universe forever by sewing buttons over her eyes.

dakota fanning coraline

As the narrative progresses, Dakota Fanning beautifully conveys Coraline’s shift from curiosity to fear, and then to determination. Guided by a mysterious talking cat and her own wit, Coraline must challenge the “Other” mother and find a way to return to her real world before it’s too late.

The story unfolds as a testament to Dakota Fanning’s voice acting prowess, as she deftly balances Coraline’s vulnerability and bravery in the face of such harrowing circumstances.

Coraline proved to be a solid hit at the box office, raking in a commendable $130 million against a production budget of $60 million. This financial success was bolstered by the film’s widespread critical acclaim.

The movie boasts an impressive 90 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its captivating storyline, intricate stop-motion animation, and Dakota Fanning’s compelling voice acting.

Critics and audiences alike were entranced by the film’s dark, whimsical charm, masterfully intertwined with an underlying sense of eeriness. Coraline‘s exceptional artistry and storytelling prowess didn’t go unnoticed by the industry either.

The movie was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards. While it didn’t take home the Oscar, the nomination itself stands as a recognition of the film’s caliber and its significant contribution to the world of animated cinema.

Dakota Fanning’s Career

Dakota Fanning, who lent her voice to the curious protagonist in Coraline, began her acting career at an incredibly young age and quickly rose to prominence with roles in movies like I Am Sam and War of the Worlds.

Over the years, her talent and range as an actress have been showcased in a variety of roles, marking her transition from a child prodigy to a respected actress in adult roles.

Of her recent endeavors, Fanning has delved into the world of television with significant aplomb. She took on the role of Susan Ford in the anticipated series The First Lady, which chronicles the lives of several First Ladies, with Viola Davis portraying Michelle Obama.

Recently, Dakota Fanning has been in Ripley and The First Lady

Moreover, Dakota has embraced a primary role in the series Ripley, based on Patricia Highsmith’s iconic novel “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” In this adaptation, Fanning steps into the shoes of Marge Sherwood, further exemplifying her knack for diving deep into diverse characters and narratives.

Coraline stands out not just for its whimsically eerie animation style, but also for the depth and innocence Dakota Fanning brings to her titular role. While the movie weaves a tale of bravery, curiosity, and the dangers of a seemingly perfect world, Fanning’s voice work elevates it, making Coraline relatable and genuine.

For fans of animation, dark fantasy, or those who simply appreciate Fanning’s multifaceted talent, Coraline on Amazon Prime Video is a must-watch, serving as a testament to the timeless nature of great storytelling paired with memorable performances.