We continue our series of reviews chronicling all of the (non-Studio Ghibli) animated films distributed by GKIDS Films — some of the most original and breathtakingly beautiful animated films from around the world — and how they hold up for an American audience.

The entire retrospective is found here, and this time we’ve got…

Marona’s Fantastic Tale (2020):
Anca Damian, director

What’s it about?

Watch the trailer, and you have a fairly good idea what Marona’s Fantastic Tale is about. I will admit, my family watched the trailer and noped out of the whole film really quickly. And that might’ve been for the best. Marona’s Fantastic Tale is a… tough watch if you’re a dog lover.

The film follows stray dog Marona as she looks back on her life and time spent with multiple owners. Yep. She looks back on her life. Which means exactly what you think it means. Not to put too fine a point on it, she gets hit by a car at the beginning of the film, which then plays out as her life flashing in front of her eyes.

Born the runt of the litter, the little dog eventually makes her way through several owners (and names), including a street acrobat, a gruff construction worker, and a little girl. In each home, she finds some joy amid much hardship, and even though her love for her humans is strong (she is a dog, after all), that feeling isn’t always reciprocal.

Ultimately, the film isn’t so much about the details of Marona’s life as it is about the universal need to feel a sense of purpose and belonging. Marona struggles with that, as does each of her owners. As do we all.

What are the cultures at play? And how about the languages?

The film is set in modern-day Paris, but the story at the center of the film transcends culture… and humanity, really. Marona’s story is that of a mostly unwanted dog and her journey through life – by turns heartbreaking and joyous but never “foreign.” There are no barriers to understanding here.

Marona’s Fantastic Tale is available in its original French and with an English dub. I can’t speak to the English dub at all; the original language is definitely the way to go.

Will my kids like it? Is there anything objectionable for young kids?

Nothing objectionable, in terms of “adult content,” but you – and kids of all ages – should be prepared for the emotional whiplash at the end of the film. It’s hardly a spoiler (see the synopsis above), and you know it’s coming, but it doesn’t lessen the heartache.

Despite the emotional roller coaster, the film is really well done, and most kids should enjoy it. They may have questions about why some of the humans treat Marona the way they do, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

The animation is also spectacular, and simply watching the film is an exercise in joy. Odds are it’s unlike anything kids have seen before, and they’ll love the adventure.

Will I like it?

The expressionist animation is worth the price of admission alone. Created in collaboration with artist Brecht Evens, the film looks wholly unlike anything else I’ve seen in recent memory. It’s a vibrant cacophony of color and geometry, and it brings Marona’s world to stylized life.

Anca Damian is also one of the few female directors in the GKIDS lineup, which sets the film apart and makes it required viewing. In fact, by my count, Marona’s Fantastic Tale is only the third female-directed film the company has distributed (after Nina Paley’s Sita Sings the Blues and Nora Twomey’s The Breadwinner). And truthfully, with more than 60 films now in the GKIDS catalog, that’s pretty much inexcusable.

I also want to give a shout-out to Pablo Pico’s score, which is both hauntingly sweet and melancholy. So much of this film is understated and quiet, and Pico’s music fills in the cracks and wraps you in a warm embrace. On top of that, the end credits song – “Happiness (Is a Small Thing)” sung by Swedish musician Isabel Sörling – will crack your heart in two. The full soundtrack is currently streaming on Amazon Music.

How can I see it?

GKIDS and Shout! Factory recently released a Blu-ray edition of the film with a few special features: an interview with director Anca Damian, the Animation Is Film festival Q&A panel, an art gallery, and some trailers. The film is also available digitally from most retailers (in both languages).

Final word?

As long as you’re prepared for the emotional sucker punch the film provides, Marona’s Fantastic Tale is a fantastic addition to the GKIDS catalog, and it’s one any self-respecting animation fan should watch.