“Memoir of a Snail” is an Australian clay animation movie. Its style is darker compared to American or Japanese animations, featuring characters that aren't conventionally attractive but possess distinct personalities.
The movie is not suitable for minors, featuring numerous non-mainstream scenes from real life, such as bullying and striptease. While it largely recounts tragic life experiences—early parental death, family separation, and abuse—the protagonist retreats into self-protection, burdened by a heavy shell like a snail, unable to move forward smoothly. The solution presented is her friend Pinky, who despite facing misfortune herself, refuses to be trapped by the past. Instead, she bravely confronts life, moves forward proactively, and forges a uniquely vibrant existence.
The movie concludes on a positive note: influenced by her friend, the protagonist breaks free from past burdens, stops hoarding objects and dwelling on the past, and pursues the life she desires. In real life, many struggle to break free from painful past experiences, which become lifelong burdens.
The mainland China release version censored certain content, including homosexuality and nudity, which somewhat impacts the viewing experience. For films released in mainland China, it's advisable to research the censorship beforehand to decide whether to see it in theaters.