Review: THE SECRET OF KELLS

With the popularity of CG-animated films from Pixar and DreamWorks and the namesake monopoly on traditional animation that is Disney, it’s rare that smaller indie or even foreign animated films of a traditional nature get much attention. Each year a number of these gems arrive at smaller theaters scattered throughout the country, but rarely do they enjoy the benefit of mass audiences due to a lack in exposure and publicity.

THE SECRET OF KELLS, which originally debuted elsewhere in 2009, is one example of a brilliant, under exposed jewels of traditional animation. Co-directed by Tomm Moore and Nora Twomey, this little Irish film earned more recognition than most with an Academy Award nomination in 2009 for Best Animated Feature, a nomination that many feel should have led to an actual Oscar win.

Brendan (Evan McGuire) is a young orphaned boy, living in a secluded medieval village under the care of his uncle, Abbot Cellach, voiced by Brendan Gleeson. The remote northern village is hard at work constructing a massive wall that will encircle their homes and protect them from the violent onslaught of invading barbaric Northmen. Abbot Cellach is obsessed with the building of the wall, confident it will protect the people from the invaders.

Meanwhile, little Brendan finds himself intensely bored being confined within the walls and increasingly curious about the world outside. Forbidden to venture beyond the walls, everything begins to change when a legendary illuminator arrives as a refugee of a recent Northmen attack. Brendan is awestruck by the man and his unfinished book, drawn to the stories and lore of its past, present and future. Naturally, this leads Brendan to develop a bond with the illuminator, one which opens new possibilities and challenges in Brendan’s young life.

Brendan Gleeson does a wonderful job voicing the stern and determined Abbot Cellach, however this not the “Brendan” that the audience will connect most with. That honor goes to the young and adventurous “Brendan” in the story, a boy who encounters a fairy named Aisling (Christen Monney) while in the woods and stumbles upon the dangers of the Dark one’s lair, courageously staying true to his mission despite the perils set before him.

THE SECRET OF KELLS uses the traditional animation techniques, but has an organically-geometric style, influenced by the traditional Irish folk art and decorative lettering. The film is based on the legendary Book of Kells, and the boy behind its creation. This is a story of accomplishment and talent put to astonishing good, realized through a mentor despite the many obstacles that stood in his way. The film is filled with wonderful colors, earthy and vibrant, with a kinetic pace that is as organic its visual style.

Perhaps the best part of the film –and THE SECRET OF KELLS is a very difficult film to dissect in terms of “best parts” as its all amazing—is the original music by Bruno Coulais, whose extensive body of work has recently included CORALINE and Disney’s OCEANS, enriches this story so greatly that defines much of the film. Often ethereal, the score is heavily inspired by traditional Irish folk music of various forms. I would venture to guess, after seeing this film the first time, one could sit back and close their eyes and merely listen to the score and follow the story with a fascinating accuracy.

Overall, THE SECRET OF KELLS is a tremendously engaging, moving and uncommonly significant animated film that deserves an audience and a place in film history. While the real linear running time of 75 minutes is relatively short, the experience feels much more epic and exhilarating. THE SECRET OF KELLS has an appeal and a message that can, and should, resonate with anyone, young or old, regardless of their backgrounds.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars