The Secret of Kells (2009)

The Secret of Kells is a delightful work of animation all in the style of Celtic manuscript illumination. In short, it is a work of illustrated animation and animated illustration. (Look up the Book of Kells to see the exquisite calligraphy, illustrations, and gold-leaf filigree and embellishment work dating back more than 1,000 years.) The movie's story loosely follows the history of the famous gospel manuscript and remains faithful in spirit to the monastic life (though Mick Lally as Brother Aidan reminds me of Willie Nelson, Brendan Gleeson as Abbot Cellach reminds me of Liam Neeson, and Evan McGuire as the young Brendan and Michael McGrath as the adult Brendan remind me of Ewan McGregor as a young Obi-Wan). The voicework is excellent and I esp. love Christen Mooney as the wood nymph Aisling (pronounced Ashley). The illustration is stylized and folkloric and, while often reminiscent of Watership Down and Ponyo, it is all Celtic; those who love said culture and music will wriggle with delight during this movie from opening to closing credits. The story could be stronger if judged by modern standards but that's like saying the Lord of the Rings lacks car chases. The Secret of Kells is a creative re-imagining of tradition and folklore. It's beautiful. What else did you want? My youngest son agrees that we must own it on DVD. 5 stars.