Why ‘Coraline’ Features One of the Best Monstrous Mothers in Horror History
Fifteen years after its initial release, ‘Coraline’ remains a standout film in the horror genre, with its theatrical re-release in the United States drawing attention alongside new films like ‘Alien: Romulus’ and ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Adapted from Neil Gaiman’s 2002 novella, ‘Coraline’ has achieved cult classic status since its debut in 2009 and is widely regarded as one of the best animated films ever made.
It is also known for its chilling portrayal of the Beldam, or Coraline’s Other Mother, whose unnerving appearance and sinister motives have made her one of the most memorable villains in children’s horror.
Image Courtesy: IMDb
The Other Mother, voiced by Terri Hatcher and depicted with creepy black button eyes and a false smile, represents a nightmarish twist on the traditional American housewife. Her character combines the facade of a perfect mother with the terrifying traits of a spider-like creature. This combination creates a unique and frightening monster for both children and adults. Her character’s origins can be traced to the term “Beldam,” an old word for an ugly old woman, and is inspired by John Keats’ poem ‘La Belle Dame sans Merci’, which features a beautiful yet malevolent fairy.
In ‘Coraline’, the Other Mother initially appears as a perfect version of Coraline’s real, overworked mother, offering a seemingly ideal life in exchange for Coraline’s submission. This idyllic but ultimately false paradise is a trap, showcasing the Other Mother’s manipulative nature as she tries to lure Coraline into her grasp by creating a world where she is adored and pampered.
Image Courtesy: IMDb
As the story progresses, the Other Mother’s true monstrous form, a skeletal, spider-like entity, emerges, revealing her true nature. This transformation, paired with the film’s use of stop-motion animation, intensifies the horror and makes the Other Mother a standout figure in the genre. The Beldam’s combination of domestic charm and monstrous behaviour has left a lasting impact, making ‘ Coraline’ a film that continues to resonate with audiences and solidify its place in horror history.
–Farheen Ali
