Backdrop preview Monster & Me backdrop
Monster & Me

Monster & Me (2013)

Oct 26, 2013 1h 14m Family

Rubie is a classic grade school bully. She is challenged by Santa; she must get a present from a real friend by Christmas, or he’ll make her as ugly on the outside as she is on the inside. Rubie learns it's the inside that's most important in a person.

Directed by Jeff Solema

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Jeff Solema
Writer
  • Koji Steven Sakai

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

Monster & Me represents a fascinating example of Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Jeff Solema brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2013, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Monster & Me took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $0.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 74 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 427 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The film contains approximately 1862 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2013, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Monster & Me shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Porch Pirates, which focuses more on action than character development, Monster & Me subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Have I Got a Christmas for You and The Wizard's Christmas explore similar territory, Monster & Me stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 26, 2013
  • Runtime: 1h 14m
  • Budget: $750