Animation Analysis: Song of the Sea

Song of The Sea is a stunning animation by Cartoon Saloon that focuses on Celtic myth. This mythology is clearly woven into the beautiful hand drawn backgrounds throughout the film, with spiralling designs inspired by Celtic folk art.
The film begins with a background that reflects the lightheartedness of Bens-the main characters- childhood. The first scene presents such a tranquil and serene image of the clear blue sky and the sounds of the sea that we immediately feel engaged emotionally. The colours are very inviting and vibrant and especially appealing to young children, although I think the art throughout the entire film make it appealing for all ages, especially when the more mystical side of things come in.

This colourful scene contrasts with the later scenes, after the children have been sent away to Dublin to live with their Granny. I love how these scenes juxtapose completely the scenes at the beginning, looking dirty, smoggy and ominous unlike the open brightness of the scenes by the sea. The browns and greys of the city contrast deeply with the deep greens and blues of the sea.

One of the most visually striking scenes in the film is when Ben meets the Great Seanachaí, meaning 'bearer of old lore,' who tells him where his sister has gone. 

This is one of the most mystical moments in the story and I think the colours chosen for the scene really reflect that mystery and intrigue, especially the shine on the Seanachaí's hair which adds to the magical feeling of the scene. At some points in the film I was reminded of the backgrounds in Miyazaki films like Spirited Away, perhaps because of the painterly qualities and the bright and appealing colours.

My favourite thing about this movie