[ by Barry Goss ] — Yeah, I think the phrase “last summer,” instead of this “past” summer, is the way to go. After all, we’re now high-flying into 2017. Out with the old, in with the new.

Anyway, to the point: this little puppy, from the acclaimed animation studio LAIKA, is now my my ‘To Watch Quick‘ list.  Why?

‘Cause, simply, it’s a classic coming-of-age, hero’s journey. Something I’d want my 8 -yo son to learn from, be inspired through. Now, over to Kevin Rose for a bit more excitement as to why you should consider this for yourself and your family too:

This stop-motion masterpiece is the best film I’ve seen this year [2016]]. For me, it checks all the boxes: a boy finding his inner courage, loved ones lost, epic Japanese samurai battles, and a touch of comedy. It’s pretty adult and slightly dark (think Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas), but I consider that a bonus. I watched this with my niece (13) over Thanksgiving and she also loved it.