And now for something completely different: Memoir of a Snail. The latest “clayography” from Australia’s Oscar-winning stop-motion animator Adam Eliot is a bittersweet look into the life of one Grace Pudel, a lonely woman who collects romance novels, guinea pigs… and snails.

How different? Well, if you’ve ever had the good fortune to catch one of Eliot’s previous works (Mary and Max, Harvie Krumpet), you’ll be thinking: Very different, in every conceivable way, often, and generally with surprises from directions you never imagined. Warning: This is a grown-up animation; not recommended for little kids.

In contrast to some recent feature-length, big-studio animations, Eliot’s unglamorized, emotionally intelligent approach to his story adds to its authenticity. Weird and wonky to be sure, but with an effective intensity, a humanist vibe, and a soundtrack of elegant classical music. It’s just a loveable movie. Make you a better person. Voice talent includes Jacki Weaver, Sarah Snook and Charlotte Belsey. (95 min)

Out in theatres now.

Down for more Aussie cinema—what should you watch next? In Relic, by Japanese/Australian filmmaker Natalie Erika James, a grandmother, daughter and granddaughter try to control an evil presence. Or maybe Breath is more to your taste? Two naïve young men befriend a mysterious surfer who mentors and teaches them more than just surfing.