A childhood staple that holds up under adult scrutiny exceptionally well, "The Secret of NIMH" is a tale of unlikely heroism in the face of harrowing odds; a widowed mouse who endures far worse than she ever has in her life. I love Mrs. Brisby; she's scarred, fretful but possessing of untapped inner resolve and a fine protagonist for this tale. My daughter's not ready for this film's startling intensity, but I see her in Mrs. Brisby, which heartens me deeply.
Apropos, between the startled gasps of Mrs. Brisby and the urgency of Jerry Goldsmith's score, this movie is far more intense than you may think. The dangers are real, and that comes through organically. That's one of the film's strength, along with its craftsmanship. Technically speaking, it's gorgeous; the backgrounds are intricately detailed and sometimes even sparkle -- and there's a terrific sense of movement to the animation. Don Bluth & Co. clearly didn't set off on their own with a half-ass attempt, and this is a memorable foray into the movie business as a result.
Apropos, between the startled gasps of Mrs. Brisby and the urgency of Jerry Goldsmith's score, this movie is far more intense than you may think. The dangers are real, and that comes through organically. That's one of the film's strength, along with its craftsmanship. Technically speaking, it's gorgeous; the backgrounds are intricately detailed and sometimes even sparkle -- and there's a terrific sense of movement to the animation. Don Bluth & Co. clearly didn't set off on their own with a half-ass attempt, and this is a memorable foray into the movie business as a result.