Review: The Secret of NIMH (1982)

Ah, The Secret of NIMH. If you were around in the early 80s, you might remember the buzz surrounding this animated film. Directed by Don Bluth, who had just broken away from Disney, this movie was a notable shift in animated storytelling. It wasn't just about the vivid colors and charming characters; it was about pushing the boundaries of what animation could do in terms of tone and content. The film's ability to weave a darker, more mature story into the animated genre was quite a feat. For collectors of animation, it's a title that holds a special place in any collection.

Plot Summary

The Secret of NIMH tells the story of Mrs. Brisby, a widowed field mouse, as she embarks on a perilous journey to save her sickly son. Her quest leads her to the mysterious world of the rats of NIMH, a group of highly intelligent rodents who escaped from a laboratory. Without giving too much away, the narrative explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the quest for knowledge. It’s a tale that cleverly balances fantasy elements with real-world issues.

Performances

In an animated film, voice acting is crucial, and The Secret of NIMH doesn’t disappoint. Elizabeth Hartman delivers a heartfelt performance as Mrs. Brisby. Her ability to convey vulnerability and determination makes the character relatable and strong. Dom DeLuise provides a delightful contrast with his portrayal of Jeremy, the clumsy crow, adding a touch of humor to the otherwise serious narrative. Then there's John Carradine as the Great Owl, whose deep, resonant voice lends an air of authority and mystery.

The supporting cast, including Derek Jacobi as Nicodemus and Paul Shenar as Jenner, also contribute significantly to the film's overall impact. Each character feels distinct, and their interactions help to build a rich, immersive world. The voice performances here are a reflection to the talent of the actors and the direction that guided them.

Direction and Craft

Don Bluth’s direction in The Secret of NIMH is nothing short of impressive. Breaking away from Disney, Bluth brought a distinctive style that emphasized detailed artwork and mature themes. The animation is hand-drawn, and you can see the care put into each frame. The backgrounds are lush and detailed, almost painterly, which adds depth to the film’s world.

The film's score, composed by Jerry Goldsmith, elevates the storytelling with its sweeping melodies and emotional undertones. Goldsmith’s music complements the visuals beautifully, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes. The animation combined with such a powerful score makes for a viewing experience that feels both grand and intimate.

The Secret of NIMH also stands out for its willingness to tackle darker themes. It's not afraid to explore the more perilous aspects of its story, which was a bold move for an animated film at the time. This choice not only set it apart from its contemporaries but also paved the way for future animations that aimed to appeal to a broader audience.

Collector's Verdict

For those who treasure animated films, The Secret of NIMH is an essential addition to your collection. It represents a key moment in animation history, a time when artists were willing to take risks and explore new storytelling avenues. The Blu-ray edition is particularly recommended due to its superior picture and sound quality, as well as the inclusion of insightful behind-the-scenes features that shed light on the film’s creation.

Though the Blu-ray is not the rarest find out there, it's still uncommon enough to be a prized possession in any collection. The combination of its historical significance and the quality of the physical media makes it a must-have.

In conclusion, The Secret of NIMH remains a fascinating exploration of animated storytelling, and its unique blend of artistry and narrative depth continues to enchant new generations of viewers. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this is one film you'll want to revisit time and again.

Star Rating: 4.5 out of 5