Based on the Irish legend of the Selkies, a boy and his mute sister embark on an epic journey to save the magical world and uncover the secrets of their past. A film by Tomm Moore, featuring the voices of Brendan Gleeson, Fionnula Flanagan, David Rawle, Lisa Hannigan, Pat Shortt, and Jon Kenny.

Cartoon Saloon, the Irish studio that made The Secret of Kells, returns with its second animated feature, inspired by the Selkies, Celtic mythological creatures that can shapeshift between seal and human form by removing or putting on their sealskin.

The origins of selkie folklore can be traced back to medieval texts from the 13th century. Over time, selkie stories evolved to focus more on romantic love stories between selkies and humans. Many tales warn that love between a human and a selkie can be risky, as the selkie will eventually return to the sea, leaving their human lover behind. In order to prevent them from returning to the sea, the human hides the selkie’s skin. In human form, selkies are described as beautiful, graceful, and having captivating singing voices. Selkies can only transform from seal to human form on certain nights, usually Midsummer’s Eve or during a full moon.

The story follows Coner (Brendan Gleeson), his pregnant wife Bronach (Lisa Hannigan), and their son Ben (David Rawle), who live happily together on a small island with their English Sheepdog, Cú.

Coner works at the lighthouse, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new member of their family. However, one night, Bronach mysteriously disappears, leaving behind her newborn daughter, Saoirse (Lucy O’Connell).

Bronach often told Ben the legend of Manannán mac Lir, the sea god who was cursed and turned to stone by Macha, the Owl Witch. On every Halloween night, Macha’s owls would hunt for the faeries to steal their emotions, transforming them into stone.

Manannán mac Lir is a significant figure in Irish mythology, known as a powerful sea god and guardian of the Otherworld. His name translates to “son of the sea,” reflecting his deep connection to the ocean. Manannán is primarily associated with the sea, often depicted riding a chariot across the waves or traveling in a magical boat called Sguaba Tuinne (Wave-sweeper) that requires no oars or sails. He serves as a protector and guide to the souls of the dead, ferrying them to paradise-like realms such as Emain Ablach (Isle of Apple Trees) and Tír na nÓg (Land of Eternal Youth). Manannán possesses magical items like a cloak of invisibility, a horse named Aonbharr that can traverse both land and sea, and a sword called Fragarach that can cut through any armor.

Macha, often referred to as the Owl Witch, is a prominent figure in Irish mythology, embodying themes of sovereignty, war, and the land. She is associated with the province of Ulster and is linked to significant sites such as Navan Fort (Eamhain Mhacha) and Armagh (Ard Mhacha), both named in her honor. Macha is also connected to the Morrígna, a trio of war goddesses, emphasizing her martial aspects. The mythology surrounding her highlights the importance of respect for the land and the consequences of disrespecting powerful feminine forces. As the Owl Witch, Macha embodies wisdom and the mystical qualities associated with owls.

Coner’s mother, Granny (Fionnula Flanagan), arrives from the city to celebrate Saoirse’s birthday. Granny has never approved of Coner raising their grandchildren on the remote island, which she deems unsafe for children. When Saoirse discovers a white sealskin coat and puts it on, she transforms into a seal and swims into the sea.

Granny later finds Saoirse on the beach and insists on taking the children back to the city with her. Coner locks the coat in a chest, he tosses the chest and the key into the sea.

On Halloween, Ben and Saoirse encounter a group of faeries who reveal that Saoirse is a selkie who can free the petrified faeries. However, a selkie has no magical powers without her coat.

As the siblings plan to return to the lighthouse, Macha’s owls attack in an attempt to kidnap Saoirse.

Faerie refers to a distinct category of supernatural beings that are often more complex and potentially malevolent than the more familiar “fairy.” The term “faerie” is derived from the Old French, which encompasses a broader range of magical beings, including those that inhabit the Otherworld. In Irish folklore, fairies, often referred to as the Aos Sí, are supernatural beings deeply embedded in the mythology of the Celts. They are believed to be the descendants of the Tuatha Dé Danann, a divine race that inhabited Ireland before humans arrived. Faerie lore includes numerous tales that highlight their interactions with humans, often involving themes of abduction, transformation, and the crossing of boundaries between the human world and the faerie realm. These stories emphasize the need for caution and respect when dealing with faeries, as they can be both protectors and adversaries. As Christianity spread, these deities transformed into the fairy folk known today.

The siblings flee the scene and board a country bus. As Saoirse’s illness worsens, they encounter a holy well, into which she dives. Ben follows her and meets the Great Seanachaí (Jon Kenny), who reveals that Macha has kidnapped Saoirse and she will die if she does not get her coat back. Ben must embark on a quest to rescue his sister.

The Great Seanachaí refers to a traditional Irish storyteller, known as a seanachaí, who plays a vital role in preserving and sharing the rich oral history and folklore of Ireland. The term seanachaí means “storyteller” in Gaelic, and these individuals are considered guardians of cultural heritage, tasked with passing down captivating tales that have been handed down through generations. The tradition of the seanachaí has deep roots in Irish culture, evolving over centuries and adapting to modern times.

SONG of the SEA is a storytelling masterclass, showcasing unique and exquisite hand-drawn animation and a captivating tale inspired by Celtic mythology. Each character possesses complex traits and undergoes significant development. SONG of the SEA is an instant classic.

SONG of the SEA premiered at Toronto International Film Festival on 6 September 2014. The film was theatrically released in France on 10 December. It was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the 87th Academy Awards.

Awards

• Prix Spécial du Jury — Festival International des Voix du Cinéma d’Animation (2014)
• Best Animated or Mixed Media Feature — Satellite Awards (2015)
• Best Film — Irish Film & Television Awards (2015)
• Best Animated Feature Film — European Film Awards (2015)

SONG of the SEA was originally released on Blu-ray on 17 March 2015, with a later re-release by Shout Factory on 22 April 2022. This Blu-ray edition features an array of special content, including an audio commentary by director Tomm Moore, which offers insights into the film’s production and animation process. it also includes a behind-the-scenes featurette with optional commentary, animation tests, and a visual montage titled “The Art of SONG of the SEA,” showcasing concept art and production stills. The film is presented in 1080p with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround sound mix.