October 3, 2010
Beguilingly simple, surprisingly complex, it writhes and spins like a golden fairytale. Brendan, a boy-monk in the 9th century, tries to save the Book of Kells from Viking invaders. Awash with colour, shape and movement, it’s a breathtaking achievement. Not unlike the book itself.
Brendan’s uncle, abbot of the Celtic monastery, forbids him to leave the enclosure. Or to work with Aidan the illuminator who’s brought an unfinished manuscript from the ravaged isle of Iona. Of course he does both. In the nearby wood, looking for berries to make into ink, Brendan meets Aisling, a mercurial forest spirit in the form of a girl his own age who helps in his quest. But the Vikings are coming.
The Secret of Kells is a glorious film, fully deserving its animated-feature Oscar nomination. Striking in tone and style, it’s an uncompromisingly bold achievement. Twisting and turning, it’s organic, almost alive. Like an Irish Studio Ghibli film, it dips its quill into history, myth and magic.
A honking goose and a farmyard chase are the slapstick start of a spiritual journey. Angular enemies, shapes and shadows are enough to convey the danger. A psychedelic nightmare sweeps straight into a superb evocation of Brendan’s creativity. Time and again, The Secret of Kells surprises and enthrals.
Director Tomm Moore and his team have worked wonders. One viewing won’t be sufficient. Exciting and energetic enough for most kids, it stretches and insinuates too. Some voices are hard to catch. But it’s a feast for the eyes and mind.
Brendan’s uncle, abbot of the Celtic monastery, forbids him to leave the enclosure. Or to work with Aidan the illuminator who’s brought an unfinished manuscript from the ravaged isle of Iona. Of course he does both. In the nearby wood, looking for berries to make into ink, Brendan meets Aisling, a mercurial forest spirit in the form of a girl his own age who helps in his quest. But the Vikings are coming.
The Secret of Kells is a glorious film, fully deserving its animated-feature Oscar nomination. Striking in tone and style, it’s an uncompromisingly bold achievement. Twisting and turning, it’s organic, almost alive. Like an Irish Studio Ghibli film, it dips its quill into history, myth and magic.
A honking goose and a farmyard chase are the slapstick start of a spiritual journey. Angular enemies, shapes and shadows are enough to convey the danger. A psychedelic nightmare sweeps straight into a superb evocation of Brendan’s creativity. Time and again, The Secret of Kells surprises and enthrals.
Director Tomm Moore and his team have worked wonders. One viewing won’t be sufficient. Exciting and energetic enough for most kids, it stretches and insinuates too. Some voices are hard to catch. But it’s a feast for the eyes and mind.