Genres: Animation, Comedy
Directors: Stéphane Aubier, Vincent Patar
Not Rated
Runtime: 75 min
Reviewer Ranking 9/10
Movie Review by: John Ormson
There are only two possible reactions after watching this movie – either “That was the best thing I have ever witnessed” or “What the %&@# did I just watch?” – with very little gray area in between.
A Town Called Panic is a Belgian film done in clay animation and is based off a 2000 television series of the same name. It follows the whacky adventures of Cowboy, Indian, and Horse. Describing the plot here would be pointless, since it’s hard to say that there is one, but what I can tell you is that this movie has a music school for animals, a 50-foot tall mechanical penguin, horses slow-dancing together, and a journey to the center of the earth. If those things sound awesome to you, then there’s a chance you’d love this movie.
Honestly, there’s not much to say about the production of the movie. The animation is done very crudely, but it somehow manages to make the movie better. It gets choppy, but it feels like a kid (or adult) is playing with these figures. The voice acting is solid as well. What’s most important is that the directors manage to create a perfect spirit; it feels like a modern day Looney Tunes with a hint of Wallace and Gromit mixed in. It’s clear that the directors achieved their goal with this film, because in all its ridiculousness, everything feels finished.
It’s hard not to recommend this film because it’s such a hilarious ride, but there are definitely people out there who will hate it. There’s really nothing to the experience of A Town Called Panic except the insane plot, so if you need a logical plot, character development, or anything remotely serious, avoid A Town Called Panic. But if you just want to feel like a child, check it out with a few friends and be prepared for one of the most ridiculous movies you will ever see.
