Internationally recognised art and literary critic, writer and cultural producer. Published in ELLE, Glamour, Esquire and Cosmopolitan; member of the Union of Writers.
I had the privilege of seeing Adam Elliott’s latest masterpiece, Memoir of a Snail, at the London Film Festival in October this year. As I settled into my seat at the BFI Southbank, there was a sense of anticipation in the air. The audience was about to embark on a journey with an Australian adult stop-motion animated tragicomedy that promised to be both poignant and profound.
Written, produced and directed by Adam Elliot (who won an Oscar for Harvie Krumpet), the film struck me from the first frame with its almost monochrome palette, reminiscent of the haunting beauty of Edward Gorey’s illustrations. The extraordinary visual language, masterfully captured by cinematographer Gerald Thompson, created an atmosphere of quiet melancholy that reflected the emotional depths of Grace Pudel’s story. Sarah Snook’s voice as Grace captured her vulnerability and strength with remarkable nuance, making it impossible not to connect with the character.
Set against the backdrop of 1970s Melbourne, the film tells the troubled story of Grace and her twin brother Gilbert. We witness the trials and tribulations of a life filled with loss and uncertainty through the eyes of Grace, who finds solace in the quiet world of her snail collection, a legacy from her late mother. After the death of their father, Grace and Gilbert find themselves in different foster homes – Grace in emotionally cold Canberra and Gilbert in a strict religious home in Perth. These moments prompt reflection on the importance of support and love in childhood.
Adam Elliot masterfully explores the dark depths of trauma and its lasting effects on the human psyche. He creates a deep and poignant portrait of Grace who, despite her vulnerability, demonstrates a quiet resilience in a world that seems increasingly hostile and indifferent. Elliot skilfully conveys the complexities of love and loss, emphasising the importance of support in difficult times. In this context, Grace’s friendship with the eccentric elderly woman Pinky becomes a true beacon of hope, helping the protagonist find stability amidst a sea of uncertainty. Elliot not only creates a visually stunning world, but also imbues it with emotional depth, allowing viewers to empathise with Grace on her journey of self-discovery and healing.
Through fluid camera movements and the film’s unhurried pace, cinematographer Gerald Thompson conveys a unique metaphor of the snail’s journey, which can only move in one direction, reflecting Grace’s resilience in moving forward despite life’s challenges. This slow movement becomes a reflection of the protagonist’s inner world as she gradually discovers her voice and passion for art, which becomes her refuge. The composition emphasises the details of the surrounding world, highlighting the scale of the obstacles Grace faces. The lighting and colour palette vary according to her emotional state, creating a contrast between darker moments and brighter shades of hope. Thompson’s mastery creates an atmosphere where the viewer forgets they are looking at plasticine figures and is fully immersed in the emotional story.
The voice cast of Memoir of a Snail breathes life into Adam Elliot’s characters and adds to the impact of the film. Sarah Snook, as Grace, delivers a remarkable voice that is both heartbreaking and inspiring, conveying the character’s inner struggles with the finest of nuances. Kodi Smit-McPhee, as Gilbert, imbues the character with a haunting sensitivity that reflects the pain and resilience of a young man navigating a world that feels hostile. Eric Bana and Jacki Weaver, as supporting characters, bring a wealth of experience and depth to their roles, making each performance layered and memorable. The collective talent of the voice cast elevates this thought-provoking tragicomedy to a new level of emotional resonance, drawing viewers into the world of the film and allowing them to feel the characters’ experiences.
Memoir of a Snail explores themes of vulnerability and loss, and how these experiences shape one’s perception of the world and affect relationships with others. Grace faces feelings of isolation and uncertainty in her search for identity. The snails, which become a source of comfort for her, symbolise a slow but steady journey towards recovery and self-acceptance. The film also explores the challenges of growing up, showing how Grace learns to embrace her emotions and find hope even in the toughest of times.
Ultimately, Memoir of a Snail leaves the viewer with a sense of belief in the power of human connection and the possibility of overcoming pain. For me, Memoir of a Snail became more than just an animated film; I saw it as a deeply personal and moving exploration of the human condition and a story of psychological resilience. I strongly recommended it as a must-see for anyone looking for a story that speaks to the heart.
