In this dizzy world of computer-generated special effects, the thought of a rogue string giving away a digitised setpiece is enough the have a studio exec reaching for his gun.

So it's strange - and not a little encouraging - to see a film that regards the use of puppets as reason enough to make their strings an integral part of the plot.

Of course, it's Danish... which helps. But this tale of duplicity and love conquering all is such a radical departure from Hollywood routine that it's worth a gander.

Here the strings suspending and manipulating the mannequins aren't digitally airbrushed away with a piece of software... they are there for all to see.

Young yet fearless Hebalon Prince Hal (voiced by McAvoy) and his trusted warrior Erito set off to decimate sworn enemies the Zeriths after they apparently bump off his dad.

However, what he doesn't know is that pop topped himself - an inconvenient fact that Hal's dodgy uncle doesn't want known as he attempts to seize control of the Hebalon kingdom.

Making the plot murkier are Hal's sister and Erito's wife, who uncover the dastardly deeds going on within the Hebalon walls... and know their loved ones are walking into a trap.

From the opening scene, it's apparent that the strings working the crude puppets - roughly hewn out of grainy wood - are an extension of the characters.

In fact, they're not strings at all but ruddy great thick cords... and the means of execution for condemned marionettes is the ritual severance of the "head string".

Once you've got your head round the device, this turns into an inventive and often chillingly effective adventure yarn - a medieval Team America without the irony.

It looks great and the unconventional use of puppets lends it a compellingly weird atmosphere you genuinely won't have seen or felt before.

Suspend your disbelief and get strung along.

Tim Evans.