After reading – and loving – the book of A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, I was eager to see the movie adaptation. I knew the film was going to be special and I knew that it wouldn’t let me down. But that being said, when the opening scene came onto the screen, I started to feel weary of what I was about to watch. I needed the film to be brilliant as A Monster Calls is one of my favourite books.

12-year-old Conor (Lewis MacDougall), dealing with his mother’s (Felicity Jones) illness, a less-than-sympathetic grandmother (Sigourney Weaver), and bullying classmates, finds a most unlikely ally when a Monster (Liam Neeson) appears at his bedroom window. Ancient, wild, and relentless, the Monster guides Conor on a journey of courage, faith, and truth.

It’s safe to say that this film was beautiful. I love how director J.A Bayona, creates this upsetting, yet hopeful and magical world. Some of my favourite parts of the movie was when the Monster was telling Conor his three stories and we would see the stories play out on the screen in beautiful watercolour. 

The way that Conor’s grief is also portrayed throughout the film is remarkable and MacDougall is an absolutely brilliant actor. The way that he cares for his sick mother and wants to do everything to protect her is magical.

There’s not much to say about this film without giving away spoilers but just know that it’s beautiful and did the book justice. Also, a word of warning: have your tissues at the ready, because this film is an emotional rollercoaster.