Watch Skellig

Skellig is a 2009 film adaptation of David Almond's classic children's novel of the same name. Directed by Annabel Jankel and starring Tim Roth, Bill Milner, Skye Bennett, John Simm, Kelly Macdonald, and Jermaine Allen, the movie brings the beloved story to life on screen. The story revolves around a young boy named Michael, played by Bill Milner, who has recently moved into a new house with his family. Michael's parents are busy renovating the old, run-down house, and his baby sister is very sick. Michael feels isolated and alone, with no friends or activities to occupy him. One day, while exploring the overgrown garden, he discovers a strange bird-like creature hidden in the shed. It is a filthy, bedraggled man, played by Tim Roth, who seems to be living in the shed.

At first, Michael is scared and repulsed by the creature, but soon he finds himself drawn to it. He begins to visit the creature regularly and soon discovers that it has magical powers. The creature can make things grow, heal wounds, and even fly. Michael becomes obsessed with the creature and its powers, and he decides to try and heal his sick sister with its help.

As Michael delves deeper into the mystery of the creature, he encounters a series of strange and wonderful characters, including a mysterious girl named Mina, played by Skye Bennett, and a man named Ernie, played by John Simm, who seems to know something about the creature's origins. Meanwhile, Michael's parents are becoming increasingly worried about their son's obsession with the creature, and they try to intervene.

The movie has a dreamlike quality, with stunning visuals and a haunting musical score. It explores themes of isolation, loss, and the power of imagination. The relationship between Michael and the creature is at the heart of the story, and both Bill Milner and Tim Roth give powerful and nuanced performances. Skye Bennett is also excellent as Mina, bringing a sense of mystery and otherworldliness to her character.

One of the strengths of the movie is its use of magical realism. The creature's powers are not explained or rationalized, but rather presented as a natural part of the world. This creates a sense of wonder and enchantment, while also allowing the movie to explore deeper themes of spirituality and faith.

Another strength of the movie is its attention to detail. The production design and cinematography are both excellent, creating a rich and immersive world for the characters to inhabit. The movie also takes pains to accurately depict the world of a young boy, from the cluttered chaos of Michael's bedroom to the awkwardness of his interactions with Mina.

Overall, Skellig is a beautifully crafted movie that captures the essence of David Almond's novel. It is a poignant and thought-provoking story that will appeal to both children and adults. The movie is a testament to the power of imagination and the importance of connection, and it will leave viewers with a sense of wonder and hope.