It’s quite telling that while the official English title of the film is April and the Extraordinary World, in the subtitles it’s referred to as “twisted world”, for that is exactly what we’re given in this adaptation of Jacques Tardi’s work. Set in an alternate reality where Napoleon V rules France, and all of the world’s greatest scientists have disappeared - leaving the world in a permanent “coal age” - the film follows the title character (voiced by Marion Cotillard) as she searches for her missing parents. Joined by her faithful friend, a talking cat named Darwin (Philippe Katerine), April navigates the streets of Paris trying to make a living and staying away from the mysterious creatures who believe she holds the key to a magical elixir.

Directed by Christian Desmares and Franck Ekinci, April and the Extraordinary World, is quite the visual spectacle, as it allows the simple visual richness of its world unfold slowly in front of our eyes. While the animation is quite uncomplicated in terms of lines and movement, the landscape details and the expressive use of muted greys and blues makes for a compelling visual experience. The film is most appealing because of how much it seems as if it’s trying not to call attention on itself, perhaps a metaphor for its heroine’s cause.

Like fellow asexual hero Tintin, April’s charm lies in how much we’re able to project on her based on our own experiences. She’s Dickensian with a touch of Austen, in how effortlessly empowered she becomes tribulation after tribulation. The wonderful Cotillard, gives April all of her warmth, which is very welcome in a plot that often seems as if it will only make turns for the dark. The rest of the voice cast is equally wonderful, with Katerine infusing Darwin with a droll sense of humor and a pragmatism that’s more than perfect for the steampunk plot. While the film touches on important issues like the advancement of science and technology - and whether they are pros or cons - April and the Extraordinary World always remains entertaining and touching. There is nothing twisted about the excellence of the animation and the universality of its story about feeling the need for a home to call our own.