A Monster Calls is a captivating and heart-wrenching story that has captured the hearts of many readers and moviegoers alike.
Originally written as a novel by Patrick Ness and illustrated by Jim Kay, the book was later adapted into a film directed by J. A. Bayona.
Both the book and film have received critical acclaim and have resonated with audiences worldwide.
In this article, we will explore the story’s journey from page to screen, delving into the book summary, film summary, cast, parent guide, setting, and film locations.
We will also discuss memorable quotes, the soundtrack by Fernando Velázquez, and many other aspects of this beautiful story.
Book Summary: A Monster Calls
A Monster Calls tells the story of a young boy named Conor O’Malley, who is struggling to cope with his mother’s terminal illness.
Conor is plagued by nightmares and finds solace in drawing and escaping into a world of fantasy.
One night, at exactly 12:07 am, Conor is visited by a monster in the form of a giant anthropomorphic yew tree. The monster tells Conor that it will share three stories with him, after which Conor must tell the monster his own story, revealing his darkest fears and the truth he has been hiding.
Throughout the novel, we see Conor’s struggles with bullies at school, his strained relationships with his grandmother, and the painful reality of his mother’s condition.
As the monster shares its stories, Conor begins to learn valuable lessons about life, loss, and the complexities of human emotions.
A Monster Calls is a powerful exploration of grief, acceptance, and the power of storytelling.
Film Summary: A Monster Calls
The film adaptation of A Monster Calls, directed by J. A. Bayona, brings the novel to life in a visually stunning and emotionally engaging way.
Starring Lewis MacDougall as Conor, Felicity Jones as his mother, Sigourney Weaver as his grandmother, and Liam Neeson as the voice of the monster, the film stays true to the novel’s core themes and plot while adding its unique touch.
In the film, we witness Conor’s journey through his vivid imagination, as the monster’s stories are brought to life in breathtaking visual sequences.
The film delves deep into Conor’s emotions, allowing the audience to connect with his struggles and empathize with his pain.
A Monster Calls is a cinematic masterpiece that captures the essence of the novel and leaves a lasting impression on its viewers.
From Page to Screen: Differences and Similarities
While the film adaptation of A Monster Calls remains faithful to the original novel, there are some notable differences and similarities between the two.
One significant difference is the visual representation of the monster and its stories: In the book, Jim Kay’s haunting illustrations provide an abstract and dark portrayal of the monster, while the film presents a more detailed and lifelike version through the use of CGI.
The film also enhances the visual storytelling of the monster’s stories, creating a more immersive experience for the audience.
Some similarities between the book and film include the overall plot, character development, and themes.
Both versions follow Conor’s journey as he navigates the complexities of grief and learns valuable lessons from the monster.
The relationships between Conor and the other characters, such as his mother, grandmother, and bullies, are also consistent across both mediums.
Additionally, the themes of loss, acceptance, and the power of storytelling remain central to both the book and film.
The Cast of A Monster Calls: Who’s Who
The film adaptation of A Monster Calls features a talented and well-known cast, who bring the characters to life on the big screen:
- Lewis MacDougall stars as the protagonist, Conor O’Malley, delivering an emotional and powerful performance.
- Felicity Jones plays Conor’s mother, who is battling cancer and trying to stay strong for her son.
- Sigourney Weaver takes on the role of Conor’s strict and seemingly cold-hearted grandmother, while Toby Kebbell portrays Conor’s absent father.
- Liam Neeson lends his voice to the yew tree monster, bringing depth and gravitas to the character.
- The supporting cast includes James Melville as Harry, the school bully who torments Conor, and Geraldine Chaplin as the Headteacher.
Each actor delivers a compelling performance that adds depth and authenticity to their respective characters.
Parent Guide: What to Expect
A Monster Calls is a powerful and emotional story that deals with mature themes such as terminal illness, grief, and bullying.
While the film is visually stunning and the story has a strong message, it may not be suitable for very young children due to its intense and emotional subject matter.
Parents should be aware that the film contains some frightening scenes, particularly involving the monster, and may be upsetting for sensitive viewers.
For older children and teenagers, A Monster Calls can be a valuable educational tool for discussing difficult topics and promoting empathy and understanding.
Parents should be prepared to engage in conversations with their children about the themes presented in the story and help them process their thoughts and emotions.
When and Where: The Setting and Film Locations
A Monster Calls is set primarily in a small English town, where Conor and his family live. The story takes place in the present day, with some elements of fantasy woven throughout.
The film adaptation stays true to this setting, capturing the picturesque landscape and quaint town in a visually stunning way.
The movie was shot on location in various parts of England, including Manchester, Lancashire, and West Yorkshire. Some scenes were also filmed in Spain, including the striking exterior shots of the yew tree monster’s lair.
These locations add to the realism and atmosphere of the film, immersing the audience in Conor’s world.
Memorable Quotes from A Monster Calls
A Monster Calls is filled with poignant and thought-provoking quotes that resonate with readers and viewers alike.
Here are some of the most memorable lines from both the book and film:
- “Stories are wild creatures. When you let them loose, who knows what havoc they might wreak?” – The Monster
- “You do not write your life with words, you write it with actions. What you think is not important. It is only important what you do.” – The Monster
- “There is not always a good guy. Nor is there always a bad one. Most people are somewhere in between.” – The Monster
- “Your mind will believe comforting lies while also knowing the painful truths that make those lies necessary. And your mind will punish you for believing both.” – The Monster
- “If you speak the truth, you will be able to face whatever comes.” – The Monster
These quotes highlight the wisdom and depth of the story, providing valuable insights into the complexities of human emotions and the power of storytelling.
The Soundtrack: Fernando Velázquez’s Masterpiece
The soundtrack for A Monster Calls, composed by Fernando Velázquez, is a haunting and emotive work of art that perfectly captures the tone and atmosphere of the story.
The score is a blend of orchestral and choral arrangements, featuring melancholic melodies and stirring crescendos that evoke a sense of wonder, sadness, and hope.
The music adds an additional layer of emotional depth to the film, enhancing the viewing experience and immersing the audience in Conor’s journey.
‘A Monster Calls’ screenplay by Patrick Ness, analysis, and where to download it
Patrick Ness wrote the screenplay for J. A. Bayona’s A Monster Calls, doing an excellent job of bringing the story to life on the screen.
While there were some changes made to accommodate the format of a movie, the screenplay does a good job of capturing the essence of the story.
The screenplay is available for download online, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in screenwriting or movie-making.
The screenplay provides insight into Patrick Ness’s creative process and his approach to storytelling.
Curiosities and Trivia: Behind the Scenes
Here are some of the most captivating curiosity:
- The original idea for A Monster Calls came from author Siobhan Dowd, who tragically passed away from breast cancer before she could complete the story. Patrick Ness was asked to take over the project and bring Dowd’s vision to life.
- Director J. A. Bayona was heavily influenced by the films of Guillermo del Toro, particularly Pan’s Labyrinth, when creating the visual style and atmosphere for A Monster Calls.
- The yew tree monster was created using a combination of practical effects and CGI, with actor Liam Neeson performing motion capture for the character.
- A Monster Calls has won numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Carnegie Medal for the novel and multiple Goya Awards for the film.
Where to watch ‘A Monster Calls’ – streaming, download and DVD options
‘A Monster Calls’ is currently available to stream on various online platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney Plus and Netflix.
The movie is also available on DVD and Blu-ray; nice idea for a gift to a ‘A Monster Calls’s fan.
A Monster Calls Cosplay: Tips and Costume Ideas
For fans of A Monster Calls who wish to dress up as their favorite characters, there are several options to consider:
- To cosplay as Conor, you can wear a simple school uniform, complete with a backpack and a sketchbook to represent his love for drawing.
- For the monster, you can create a costume using a combination of dark clothing, body paint, and faux foliage to mimic the appearance of a yew tree.
- Additional characters to consider for cosplay include Conor’s mother, grandmother, and the school bully, Harry.
Gadgets and collectibles related to ‘A Monster Calls’
If you’re a fan of ‘A Monster Calls’, there are several gadgets and collectibles that you may be interested in, such as action figures, posters, t-shirts, and other memorabilia.
These items make great gifts for fans of the book or movie.
Video Games Inspired by A Monster Calls
While there are currently no official video games based on A Monster Calls, the story and themes of the novel and film can serve as inspiration for game developers and players alike.
Games that tackle similar themes of grief, loss, and acceptance, such as That Dragon, Cancer or Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons, may be of interest to fans of A Monster Calls. Additionally, games with strong narrative elements, such as Life is Strange or The Walking Dead, may appeal to those who appreciate the power of storytelling.
Author Spotlight: Patrick Ness and His Works
Patrick Ness is a prolific writer known for his imaginative and emotionally resonant stories. In addition to A Monster Calls, Ness has written several other novels, including the Chaos Walking trilogy and More Than This.
His works often explore themes of identity, trauma, and the human condition, and are beloved by readers of all ages.
Ness’s writing style is characterized by his vivid imagination, sharp wit, and empathetic approach to storytelling. His works have earned numerous awards and accolades, and he is widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential writers of his generation.
Ending Explained: Unraveling the Conclusion
The ending of A Monster Calls is a powerful and emotional conclusion to the story, and one that has left many readers and viewers in tears.
Without giving too much away, the ending offers a sense of closure and catharsis for Conor and his family, while also leaving room for interpretation and reflection.
Some have interpreted the ending as a metaphor for the grieving process, with Conor finally coming to terms with his mother’s death and accepting his role in her life.
Others see it as a commentary on the power of storytelling and the importance of facing difficult truths.
Ultimately, the beauty of the ending lies in its ability to resonate with audiences in different ways, depending on their personal experiences and perspectives.
When does ‘A Monster Calls 2’ come out ? Sequel updates
Given the huge success of ‘A Monster Calls 2’, we are all waiting for the release date of the sequel or the announcement of a spin-off of the movie.
They do that about anything now, I don’t see why they wouldn’t do it about A Monster Calls.
In recent months, some statements by J. A. Bayona and Lewis MacDougall hint at an imminent date on the release of ‘A Monster Calls 2’, and we will keep you updated as soon as we have a firm date.
While waiting for the official release of A Monster Calls’ new chapter, you could relive the emotions and mood of the movie by reading the book ‘A Monster Calls’ or Patrick Ness’s other books.
Director’s Corner: J. A. Bayona and His Filmography
J. A. Bayona is a Spanish director known for his visually stunning and emotionally resonant films.
In addition to A Monster Calls, Bayona has directed several other acclaimed movies, including The Orphanage, The Impossible, and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.
Bayona’s directing style is characterized by his use of striking visuals, powerful performances, and a deep understanding of human emotions.
His films often explore themes of family, loss, and human resilience, and have earned him numerous awards and critical acclaim.
Similar Films to A Monster Calls: Recommendations
For fans of A Monster Calls who are looking for similar films to watch, here are some recommendations:
- The Fault in Our Stars – a heartwarming and emotional story about two teenagers who fall in love while battling cancer.
- The Book Thief – a historical drama set in Nazi Germany, based on the bestselling novel by Markus Zusak.
- Bridge to Terabithia – a fantasy-adventure movie about two friends who create a magical world to escape their troubled lives.
- The Secret Life of Bees – a coming-of-age story set in the 1960s South, based on the novel by Sue Monk Kidd.
- Pan’s Labyrinth – a dark and fantastical tale set during the Spanish Civil War, directed by Guillermo del Toro.
Further Reading: Books by Patrick Ness and Comparable Titles
For readers who have enjoyed A Monster Calls and are looking for similar books to read, here are some recommendations:
- The Chaos Walking trilogy by Patrick Ness – an epic science fiction series about a boy living in a world where all thoughts are audible.
- The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly – a dark fairy tale about a boy who travels to a fantastical world to save his mother.
- More Than This by Patrick Ness – a haunting and thought-provoking novel about a boy who wakes up in a strange new world.
- The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman – a whimsical and enchanting story about a boy raised by ghosts in a cemetery.
- The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman – a haunting and nostalgic tale about a man who returns to his childhood home and uncovers long-buried memories.
Conclusion: The Impact of A Monster Calls on Page and Screen
A Monster Calls is a powerful and emotionally resonant story that has touched the hearts of readers and viewers around the world.
The book and film adaptation both offer unique and powerful experiences, each capturing the essence of the story in their unique way.
From the haunting illustrations of Jim Kay to the breathtaking visuals of J. A. Bayona, A Monster Calls is a masterpiece of storytelling that will continue to inspire and move audiences for years to come.
