It’s crazy to think that a 1-inch talking shell with shoes on could be so captivating, but that’s exactly what Marcel (voiced by Jenny Slate) is. The moment we meet him we can’t help but fall in love with his curious optimism and can-do attitude towards life. He’s a little guy with a massive heart, quick wits, and a fun personality. Jenny Slate has created a wonderful character that charms us, moves us, and uplifts us. Her commendable voice work is on-point throughout the whole film, and the nuances she brings to the character can only be praised.
The film itself, “Marcel the Shell with Shoes On,” explores the friendship between Marcel and Dean (Dean Fleischer Camp), a guest at the Airbnb Marcel lives in with his grandmother Connie (Isabella Rossellini), and is set on the backdrop of Dean making a documentary about Marcel. It raises a number of questions about celebrity culture, family, community, and aging, as well as taking a deep dive into what it means to be alive. As the story progresses we follow Marcel on his journey to reunite with the family he has been separated from. We learn about how they were separated and why Dean is staying in the house, too. What follows is a creatively charged story filled with humour, wit, and charm.
A Mix of Movie Styles; ‘Marcel’ has Humour and Heart
The movie leaves the viewer feeling refreshed and uplifted, and frankly it’s hard to pick a fault with it. It’s a simple yet genius idea, and a lot of its charm lies in its believability from the outset. The mixture of live action shooting with stop motion animation over the top of it only compliments this further. Yes, this is a talking shell with shoes on, and yes he has insight, feelings, and ideas about our world. Added to this, Marcel challenges the way we think. His appreciation for the little things in life is infectious. All of the odds are stacked against him, and yet he makes the most of each day time and time again. It’s a story about courage, overcoming your fear, and living each day to its fullest. That — coupled with the beautiful wisdom of his grandmother, Connie — will leave your heart melting throughout the movie.
The film’s cinematography is pure brilliance. The imagery used during the movie’s more poignant moments completes them. It helps capture something within us and moves the viewer. It awakens an appreciation for the beauty of the world we live in and the relationships we forge every day. The writing opens up the viewer to a newfound perspective of pure optimism, hope, and joy for the world we are part of. A lot of the dialogue and witty responses Marcel provides us with will challenge the way you think, but in the best way. Marcel doesn’t make us feel bad. He lets us know that it’s okay to feel this way, all while uplifting us. Connie isn’t just Marcel’s grandmother — she’s a grandmother to us all, and the one we all had (or wanted). She’s there to help Marcel (and ultimately us) overcome our struggles.
‘Marcel’ is Witty and Charming
“Marcel the Shell with Shoes On” really is the perfect combination of an ingenious idea, coupled with excellent writing, brilliant characterisation, and beautiful camerawork. It’s funny. It’s witty. And it’s charming. Above all of that, however, is the sense of hope, purpose, and positivity it will fill you with. It really is an extraordinary tale about an extraordinary little shell, and one worth watching.
“Marcel the Shell With Shoes On” is currently available to watch or rent on most streaming platforms.
