Run time: 90 mins

Based on a series of viral videos from the early 2010s, Marcel the Shell is an adorable little film, brought to life by the magic of stop motion.

Marcel lives with his grandmother, the only residents of their town after their neighbours’ sudden, mysterious disappearance. When discovered by a guest amongst the clutter of his Airbnb, the short film he posts online brings Marcel millions of fans and a new hope of reuniting with his long-lost family.

There are so many things to adore about this film it’s hard to pick a favourite. Marcel’s miniature life and the ways he survives and entertains himself is a key draw: he nestles inside a tennis ball to get around the house. He sleeps on a slice of bread. He steps in a sticky puddle of honey whenever he wants to walk on the wall or the window.

The film is far more than meets the eye. On the outside, it looks cute and delightful—which it is—but on the inside, there’s a tremendous amount going on, as the difficulties and tragedies of life are seen through the eyes of a one-inch tall shell.