Song of the Sea Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A grumpy brother and his mute sister, who’s secretly a seal-woman, have to fight an owl witch to save Ireland’s magic, all while dealing with their dad’s crippling sadness and their grandma’s desire to move them to the city.

🍿 Song of the Sea: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Lighthouse and a Mother’s Disappearance

The story begins with a family living in a lighthouse on a small island off the coast of Ireland. Conor, the father, is a lighthouse keeper. His wife, Bronagh, is pregnant and shares enchanting stories of selkies with their son, Ben. One night, Bronagh mysteriously disappears, leaving behind a newborn daughter, Saoirse.

Saoirse’s Muteness and Discovering Her Selkie Heritage

Six years pass, and Saoirse remains mute, much to the frustration of her older brother, Ben, who blames her for their mother’s disappearance. As Saoirse approaches her seventh birthday, she discovers a magical sealskin coat hidden in a chest. Wearing it, she transforms into a seal, revealing her true nature as a selkie.

Journey to the City and Escape

Their grandmother deems the island unsafe and takes Ben and Saoirse to live with her in the city. Unhappy in their new environment, they escape, embarking on a journey back to their father and the lighthouse. Along the way, they encounter creatures from Irish folklore, and Saoirse’s powers begin to awaken.

Confronting Macha and Saving the Spirit World

Their journey leads them to Macha, the Owl Witch, who is turning emotions into stone to ease the suffering of others. Ben learns that Macha took away the emotions of Mac Lir to save him from overwhelming grief, and his sister needs her selkie coat. To save Saoirse and the spirit world, Ben must confront his own feelings and help Macha understand the importance of both joy and sorrow.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Ben (David Rawle): A young boy struggling with the loss of his mother and resentment towards his mute sister, Saoirse, who embarks on a magical journey.
• Saoirse (Lucy O’Connell): A mute girl who is the last of the selkies, destined to sing a song that will free fairy creatures.
• Conor (Brendan Gleeson): A lighthouse keeper and father consumed by grief over the loss of his wife, Bronagh.
• Bronagh (Lisa Hannigan): Ben’s mother and a selkie who disappears, leaving behind her family and a legacy of magic.
• Granny (Fionnula Flanagan): The overbearing grandmother who believes the children would be better off living with her in the city.
• Macha (Fionnula Flanagan): An owl witch who turns the feelings of magical beings to stone, attempting to prevent sorrow and suffering.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Bronagh: “My son, remember me in your stories and in your songs. Know that I will always love you, always.” – Bronagh says this to Ben before she disappears, leaving a lasting impact on him.
• Ben: “She’s a Selkie, Dad! She needs her coat to sing the song!” – Ben exclaims this when he realizes his sister’s true nature and the importance of the coat.
• Macha: “I’m only trying to help. I’m taking away their pain.” – Macha says this, revealing her misguided intentions behind turning beings to stone.

💰Box Office

• Budget: €5,300,000
• Domestic Gross: $857,522
• Worldwide Gross: $4,228,034

💥 Song of the Sea Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely blown away by Song of the Sea. The animation is just gorgeous, like watching a moving painting, and the story tugged at my heartstrings. I especially loved the scenes with the seals swimming in the ocean – so magical and serene! This movie really made me feel connected to Irish folklore and the power of family. I think anyone who loves animation or has siblings will be deeply moved by this film. The part where Ben finally dives into the ocean to save Saoirse really hit me hard. Highly recommend!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Studio Ghibli films”
  • “Families looking for heartwarming stories”
  • “Those interested in Irish folklore and mythology”
  • “Animation enthusiasts”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Themes of loss and grief”
  • “Some frightening imagery (owls, witch)”
  • “Brief scenes of peril”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “A visually stunning and deeply moving animated masterpiece that seamlessly blends Irish folklore with a poignant family drama. The hand-drawn animation is breathtaking, and the story resonates with themes of loss, love, and the importance of embracing one’s heritage. A must-see for animation fans of all ages.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Song of the Sea offers a refreshing break from mainstream animation. Its unique visual style, inspired by Celtic art, is captivating. The film also explores mature themes with sensitivity and grace, making it a truly rewarding experience for both children and adults.
• Empire: “A beautiful and enchanting animated film rooted in Irish mythology. The story is heartwarming and emotionally resonant, and the hand-drawn animation is a feast for the eyes. A must-see for those seeking a unique and magical cinematic experience.

Audience Reactions

The breathtaking animation style is unlike anything else out there.: Viewers universally praise the stunning visuals and unique hand-drawn animation.

The movie’s story touched many people’s hearts.: Fans connect with the film’s themes of family, loss, and the importance of emotions.

Overall Consensus: Song of the Sea is a critically acclaimed animated film praised for its stunning visuals, heartwarming story, and unique blend of Irish folklore and family drama.

Awards

1. Satellite Award (Outstanding Animated Feature)- 2014

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film draws heavily on Irish folklore, particularly the legend of the Selkies, beings who can transform from seals to humans.”
• “Director Tomm Moore aimed for a visual style reminiscent of traditional Celtic art, using flat, graphic designs and vibrant colors.”
• “The film was a co-production between studios in Ireland, Belgium, Denmark, France, and Luxembourg, showcasing a collaborative European animation effort.”
• “Brendan Gleeson, who voices Conor, also voiced Abbot Cellach in Tomm Moore’s previous film, ‘The Secret of Kells’.”

🖥️ How to Watch Song of the Sea?

Song of the Sea is available for streaming on various platforms, including Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu, often available for rent or purchase. Check local listings for availability in your region. It’s also often available for purchase on DVD and Blu-ray from major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, offering a physical copy for collectors.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Song of the Sea, you might like these similar films:

• The Secret of Kells (2009): Also directed by Tomm Moore, features a similar animation style and explores Irish mythology.
• Spirited Away (2001): Features a young protagonist navigating a world of spirits and creatures to save her family, sharing themes of family and the spirit world.
• Ponyo (2008): A story about a goldfish princess who longs to be human. It has thematic similarities of the sea and transformation.

🛒 Song of the Sea Related Products

• Song of the Sea (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack): Immerse yourself in the film’s enchanting score with the official soundtrack. Featuring the haunting vocals of Lisa Hannigan and the evocative compositions of Bruno Coulais, this soundtrack is a must-have for fans of the movie.
• Song of the Sea: Art Book: Go behind the scenes of the film’s stunning animation with this art book. Featuring concept art, character designs, and storyboards, this book offers a fascinating look at the creation of Song of the Sea.
• Song of the Sea – Ben & Saoirse Plush Set: Bring the magic of ‘Song of the Sea’ home with these adorable plush dolls of Ben and Saoirse. Made with high-quality materials, these charming collectibles are perfect for fans of all ages, capturing the heartwarming essence of the beloved characters. These soft and huggable companions are a delightful way to celebrate the film’s enchanting story.
• Children of the Sea [Blu-ray]: From the animators of Studio 4°C, director Ayumu Watanabe brings to life the manga by Daisuke Igarashi in this environmental fantasy about the way we interact with the ocean. Similar Themes, worth to see after watching Song of the Sea

🎧 Soundtrack

Song of the Sea features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Song of the Sea” – performed by Lisa Hannigan
• “Amhrán Na Mara” – performed by Lisa Hannigan
• “Into the Sea” – performed by Bruno Coulais

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Song of the Sea – Lyrics (English)

Ever wanted to sing along to ‘Song of the Sea’ but couldn’t quite catch all the words? This video has you covered with the English lyrics! It’s amazing how much deeper the song feels when you understand what it’s saying!

Aisling’s Song | The Secret Of Kells

Love the animation style of ‘Song of the Sea’? Check out this beautiful clip from ‘The Secret of Kells’, another Cartoon Saloon masterpiece. You’ll see the similarities in their art right away!

✨ Rate