The 'Coraline dad computer' meme originates from the 2009 stop-motion animated film "Coraline," directed by Henry Selick and based on Neil Gaiman's novel. In the movie, Coraline's father, Charlie Jones, voiced by John Hodgman, is depicted working tirelessly at his computer, wearing a Michigan State sweatshirt. This scene, where he looks utterly exhausted with dark circles under his eyes, has resonated with audiences for its relatable depiction of burnout and late-night work. The image has since been repurposed into a meme template, symbolizing the universal struggle of being overworked and under-rested.