^[1]We have a special treat for all you Neil Gaiman ^[2] fans out there! From comic books to best-selling novels, Gaiman has wowed fans with his mythical tales and endless imagination. Now for the first time on the big screen, the animated film Coraline ^[3] is set to debut in just a few weeks. Fans of The Nightmare Before Christmas will want to go see this film; Coraline has the same talented director, Henry Selick.

What is Coraline about? The film is based on a novella first published in 2002 entitled Coraline, about a young girl who avoids a warning and goes through that fateful door. Once inside, Coraline faces a world similar to her own with marked differences: her mother is no longer recognizable, the cat can talk, and the doddering old ladies Miss Spink and Miss Forcible are more than they appear. Winding through other twists and turns, you’ll watch as Coraline attempts to emerge victorious, rescuing more than just herself.

We had the chance to read the Coraline novella ^[1] here at Flames Rising, and noticed that this is a story unlike other young adult tales. Masterfully-written, you’ll watch Coraline grow into her role as the heroine, but also retain her sense of self and childlike innocence while she’s doing it.

We are pleased to offer you an inside look into the mind of Neil Gaiman. Mr. Gaiman was kind enough to answer a few questions about this long-awaited, animated debut.

Neil Gaiman on Coraline

FLAMES RISING: What was the most challenging part of your novella to translate into film?

GAIMAN: Finding the right filmmaker was the challenge. I sent the finished manuscript to Henry Selick and he bought it. Then I waited 9 years.

FLAMES RISING: What is your favorite scene in the movie?

GAIMAN: Favourite scene is the end, with the Other Mother in her final form, and anything with Spink and Forcible in it.

FLAMES RISING: What inspired you to create the character of Coraline?

GAIMAN: The inspiration for Coraline was that it was a story for my daughters, with a girl who got to be brave but was normal. She’s a bit Holly, a bit me, but mostly herself.

Join us in welcoming Coraline on the big screen and watch Mr. Gaiman’s favorite trailer included below for your viewing pleasure.

For more about Neil Gaiman, don’t be afraid to visit either Neil Gaiman’s website ^[2] or the official Coraline movie site ^[3] today.