James and the Giant Peach

Dreyfuss asked for a bigger boat but got a peach in this excellent adaptation of the beloved book. Burton’s striped fingers are evident in this children’s adventure and grotesque horror all Roald into one, especially during ocean encounter with Captain Jack Skellington. Moral: Don’t accept phosphorous pasta from Pete Postlethwaite.

Coraline

Interesting clay-mation/digital hybrid takes full advantage of 3-D technology. Story transforms irritatingly from simple fairytale to intensely convoluted horror story far removed from logic. Suffers from complicated book adaptation syndrome. Excellent film for simultaneously scaring girls and producing fetishes in boys. Features the creepiest porcelain spider woman since Toy Story.