Today in Nerd History | August 17

Let’s rewind to a spooky, stop-motion moment that arrived on this day in pop culture history. On August 17, 2012, Laika Studios brought us a delightfully eerie tale with a lot of heart, horror, and humor.

Inclusion on this list does not imply that the entry is family friendly, only that it was a nerd culture milestone. Parents should, of course, use discernment.

“ParaNorman,” directed by Sam Fell and Chris Butler, premiered on August 17, 2012. The film tells the story of Norman Babcock, a boy who can see and speak with the dead, as he uses his unique ability to save his town from a centuries-old curse.

Nerdy Facts:

• Stop-Motion Mastery: “ParaNorman” was created using stop-motion animation, a painstaking process where characters and scenes are moved frame-by-frame. The film utilized innovative techniques, including 3D printing, to create a wide range of facial expressions for the characters.
• Voice Talent: The film features an impressive voice cast, including Kodi Smit-McPhee as Norman, along with Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, and John Goodman, adding depth and personality to the characters.
• Critical Acclaim: “ParaNorman” received critical acclaim for its visual style, storytelling, and themes. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, solidifying its place as a standout in animated cinema.

August 17th celebrates the creativity and innovation in animation, from the meticulous artistry of stop-motion to the heartwarming and spooky tale of “ParaNorman.” Happy Nerd History Day to all who appreciate the magic of animated storytelling!