Meet the Cast of ParaNorman: A Movie About a Boy Who Speaks to the Dead

It's all fun and games until someone raises the dead.

In the quaint yet mysterious town of Blithe Hollow, a young boy named Norman Babcock, voiced by Kodi Smit-McPhee, possesses a remarkable gift: he can communicate with the dead. However, this extraordinary talent has left him isolated, as most townsfolk dismiss his claims as mere fanciful imagination. The only person who seems to understand him is his quirky new friend, Neil Downe, voiced by Tucker Albrizzi. Their unique friendship provides Norman with a much-needed sense of camaraderie in a world that frequently misunderstands him, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure that will force him to confront both the supernatural and the skepticism of those around him.

One fateful day, Norman's life takes a dramatic turn when his eccentric uncle reveals a chilling family secret. He shares the story of an ancient witch who cast a dreadful curse on the town centuries ago—a curse that threatens to resurface with deadly consequences. To combat this impending doom, Norman is tasked with performing a ritual that will help protect Blithe Hollow from the malevolent forces threatening to rise again. This revelation ignites a sense of purpose in Norman, transforming him from an outcast into a reluctant hero determined to save his hometown from an imminent disaster.

As Norman embarks on this perilous journey, he discovers not just the strength within himself but also the value of friendship and bravery in the face of adversity. Alongside Neil and other companions they meet along the way, Norman must navigate a world filled with zombies, ghosts, and the lingering effects of the witch's curse. Through humor, heart, and a touch of horror, "ParaNorman" explores themes of acceptance and understanding, reminding viewers that sometimes the most misunderstood individuals are the ones who hold the key to solving the greatest mysteries.

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Full Cast of ParaNorman

Kodi Smit-McPhee

as Norman Babcock (voice)

Kodi Smit-McPhee delivers a standout vocal performance as Norman Babcock in the animated film 'ParaNorman', imbuing the character with a delicate balance of quirky humor and poignant depth. As the young outcast who can communicate with the dead, Smit-McPhee's voice work is both nuanced and expressive, capturing the essence of a boy who is both burdened and enlightened by his unique ability. His portrayal of Norman is a touching blend of vulnerability and courage, which resonates with the audience as he navigates the challenges of adolescence while facing supernatural obstacles. Kodi's performance anchors the film, providing a heartfelt and relatable core to this spooky and comedic adventure, and showcases his talent for bringing animated characters to life with authenticity and warmth.

Tucker Albrizzi

as Neil Downe (voice)

Tucker Albrizzi delivers a memorable performance as the voice of Neil Downe in the animated feature film 'ParaNorman'. As the chubby, yet endearing sidekick to the protagonist, Norman Babcock, Albrizzi infuses Neil with a contagious enthusiasm and an unmistakable warmth that endears him to the audience. His comedic timing is impeccable, providing levity and humor amidst the film's darker and more suspenseful moments. Albrizzi's portrayal of Neil as a loyal and supportive friend to Norman, who possesses the ability to communicate with ghosts, showcases the actor's versatility in conveying genuine friendship and childlike wonder. His performance is a testament to his talent for voice acting, as he breathes life into Neil, making him a standout character with his own quirky charm, despite not being the central figure in the narrative. Tucker Albrizzi's work in 'ParaNorman' is a highlight of the film, contributing to its overall charm and success.

Jodelle Ferland

as Aggie Prenderghast (voice)

Jodelle Ferland delivers a memorable voice performance as Aggie Prenderghast in the animated feature "ParaNorman," a film that artfully blends horror and humor with heartfelt storytelling. As the misunderstood ghost at the center of the narrative, Ferland imbues Aggie with a delicate balance of vulnerability and quiet strength, effectively conveying the character's complex emotions through her vocal nuances. Despite her ethereal presence, Aggie's struggle with loneliness, her longing for companionship, and her eventual friendship with the protagonist, Norman, are all made palpable through Ferland's expressive and empathetic portrayal. Her ability to switch from the spectral wails of a vengeful apparition to the softer, more sorrowful tones of a kindred spirit allows audiences to empathize with Aggie's plight and root for her redemption. Ferland's performance is a testament to her versatility as a voice actress, and it plays a significant role in the emotional resonance of "ParaNorman."

Anna Kendrick

as Courtney Babcock (voice)

Anna Kendrick delivered a vibrant and memorable performance as Courtney Babcock in the animated film "ParaNorman," a role that showcased her versatility as a voice actress. Kendrick infused Courtney, the older, popularity-obsessed sister of the protagonist Norman, with a blend of teenage angst and unwitting humor. Her portrayal of Courtney's journey from a self-absorbed antagonist to a supportive sibling added depth to the character, as she navigated the film's supernatural events with a mix of fear and tenacity. Kendrick's vocal performance was key in bringing to life the transformation of Courtney from a stereotypical mean girl into a valuable member of the team working to save their town from a curse. Her comedic timing and ability to convey a wide range of emotions through her voice allowed Courtney to stand out as a dynamic and relatable character, contributing to the film's charm and the audience's emotional investment in the Babcock siblings' relationship.

Casey Affleck

as Mitch Downe (voice)

Casey Affleck delivered a notable vocal performance as Mitch Downe in the animated feature film 'ParaNorman', a character that stands out for his blend of humor and heart. Mitch, the well-intentioned but somewhat dim-witted older brother of the protagonist, Norman, is brought to life by Affleck's nuanced voice work, which adds depth to the character's lovable oafishness. Affleck's portrayal of Mitch is both endearing and amusing, as he navigates the film's blend of supernatural adventure and poignant coming-of-age themes. His performance is highlighted by a genuine warmth that shines through the character's often misguided attempts at chivalry and protection, endearing Mitch to the audience as a character who, despite his shortcomings, is fiercely loyal and ultimately brave in the face of the uncanny events that unfold. Affleck's vocal inflections and comedic timing complement the character's physical humor and tender moments, making Mitch a memorable and beloved part of 'ParaNorman's' eccentric cast.

Leslie Mann

as Sandra Babcock (voice)

Leslie Mann lent her vibrant and charismatic voice to the character of Sandra Babcock in the animated film "ParaNorman," bringing a lively and endearing presence to the screen. As the older sister of the protagonist, Norman, Mann's performance captures the essence of a teenager struggling with the challenges of adolescence, including her complex relationship with her younger brother and her desire to fit in with her peers. Mann's vocal work is particularly notable for its ability to convey Sandra's multifaceted personality, balancing the character's sarcastic quips and eye-rolling exasperation with moments of genuine warmth and protective affection towards Norman. Her comedic timing and dynamic range added depth to Sandra, making her a relatable and entertaining character that resonated with audiences of all ages. Leslie Mann's voice acting in "ParaNorman" not only complemented the film's quirky and heartfelt narrative but also showcased her versatility as an actress, further solidifying her talent in both live-action and animated roles.