Brent Maloney

From the very first moment things begin to spring to life, ‘Scarygirl' is a phenomenal visual delight that's difficult to describe to those unfamiliar with creator Nathan Jurevicius' ‘Scarygirl' books, artwork, games, vinyl figures or other short films. Psychedelic-like colours fill the screen with strange characters and wondrous settings the entire time and draw you in to the beautiful, mysterious world of ‘Scarygirl' in an almost hypnotic manner. Animated in a way reminiscent of stop-motion films gives it great depth and a very three dimensional look, that also reflects the appearance of Nathan's past vinyl figures & mini figures / sets. The casting is as equally stunning, particularly Jillian Nguyen who was perfect as the voice of central character, ‘Arkie'. As was Deborah Mailman as ‘Treedweller' and Sam Neill as ‘Dr.Maybee'- with Dr.Maybee even kinda resembling Sam Neill (or vice versa?) at times. I also loved Mark Coles Smith as ‘River Bandit’, who not only speaks but also makes some great crazy noises, that along with ’Rebel King’, voiced by Dylan Alcott, are referred to together as the ‘Wild Boys'. A beautiful story that is visually compelling and sonically brilliant with a wonderful cast.