Kubo and the Two Strings

If you want animation that is not just for kids, Kubo and the Two Strings is available in the UK on ITVX Premium right now. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. An 8/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Art Parkinson brings more to the role than the format usually demands. Start it on ITVX Premium whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

Kubo and the Two Strings arrived without much fanfare and built its audience the hard way — through word of mouth. Kubo and the Two Strings treats animation as a medium, not a limitation. Kubo mesmerizes the people in his village with his magical gift for spinning wild tales with origami. When he accidentally summons an evil spirit seeking vengeance, Kubo is forced to go on a quest to solve the mystery of his fallen samurai father and his mystical weaponry, as well as discover his own magical powers. Art Parkinson and Charlize Theron lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2016. Kubo and the Two Strings uses the freedom of animation to tell stories live-action could not attempt. The hit rate here is high enough that skipping ahead never feels like an option.

Kubo and the Two Strings belongs on any best-of list regardless of format. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Visually distinctive and narratively ambitious in ways that hold up regardless of format. Worth watching in order from the beginning.