On Rotten Tomatoes it has an approval rating of 90% based on 83 reviews, with an average rating of 7.61/10. Our ratings are based on child development best practices. I could see how Wolfwalkers was a huge step up in animation compared to this, but I loved the deeper roots of Celtic lore and equally terrific design that brought on much broader themes of mythology that my favourite parts were probably all the wonderful visuals that came with the Crom Cruach bits. Read critic reviews This was a beautifully animated film in a stylized way that is really lacking in today's CGI features. I would highly recommend this beautiful movie. This was a beautiful movie, unique artistry and Irish lore. Sudd… But Brendan’s uncle, the abbot of Kells, forbids Brendan to work on the book. As the Barbarians advance closer and closer, Brendan embarks on a quest to find a special crystal needed to finish the book. Reviews of The Secret of Kells. Director Tomm Moore and his co-director Nora Twomey have created a gorgeous world here. Read movie and film review for The Secret of Kells (2009) - Tomm Moore, ... She turns into a sort of New Age spirit guide, capable of morphing into graceful animals and (in one case) influencing an animal's spirit to do her bidding. [Originally written a year ago, my review of Tomm Moore's stellar Secret of Kells somehow disappeared from the ScreenAnarchy server during our recent makeover. Common Sense Media, a nonprofit organization, earns a small affiliate fee from Amazon or iTunes when you use our links to make a purchase. Orthodox Christians might have some legitimate worries. A young boy in a remote medieval outpost under siege from barbarian raids is beckoned to adventure when a celebrated master illuminator arrives with an ancient book, brimming with secret wisdom and powers. There are also some frightening images of red-eyed, snarling wolves and an evil pagan serpent god. The movie also sparked my son's interest in the real "Book of Kells" whose creation is mythologized in the move. It had beautiful animation and music. I think when I was a kid I would have been scared of the wolves and maybe the Vikings. Brendan learns to practice his gift, collaborate with Aidan, ask for help when it's needed, and act bravely when he thinks his friend is in danger. The film was very well received; it holds a 91% overall approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 78 reviews with an average rating of 7.6/10 with the critical consensus that 'Beautifully drawn and refreshingly calm, The Secret of Kells hearkens back to animation's golden age … So, perhaps you should opt for that film, instead. I would not recommend this for the majority of children... no humor, scary (the vikings are monsters and there is a lot of violence), difficult for kids to care about the plot (the writing of the Book of Kells.) From the stifling restrictions of Abbey life during the time of the Viking raiders, a young monk finds life and magic - and danger - when he escapes to the woods, and finds a kindred spirit. Brother Aidan nurtures Brendan's talent and tells him it's a gift he must use. Families can talk about Brendan as a hero. In a era of hyper-detailed 3D computer imagery, it's highly stylized hand-drawn animation is an old-school wonder to behold. Irish monks, a woodland sprite, a young boy and Ireland's most famous illuminated manuscript grace this charming Irish … All in all, the pacing was just really, really off. Add your ratingSee all 29 parent reviews. Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners. I discovered this gem by accident on Netflix. The sequence with the pagan creature that haunts the woods is also intense. This movie was good, but I have a few problems with it. Some dark themes. Violence: Brendan’s life is in frequent peril from vicious wolves, marauding Vikings, and a monstrous snake-like creature.The film contains some frightening depictions of villages being attacked and burned by invaders. In order to finish Brother Aiden's book, Brendan must overcome his deepest fears on a secret quest that will take him beyond the abbey walls and into the enchanted forest where dangerous mythical creatures hide. Is his disobedience warranted? The Secret of Kells is an absolutely magical story, with the most delicately beautiful animation I have seen. Some scenes, particularly the ones with faceless Northmen were a bit much for him, but we paused and talked and then he was fine. Description. It was a wonderful movie and I loved it, but I was kind of glad she didn't watch it, as there were some scary parts. The Irish/Belgian production The Secret of Kells is the surprise feature animated Oscar nominee of 2009, and as a result it is receiving far more attention than it otherwise would have. I don't think most kinds over 8 would any trouble with it; younger ones, just be sure they're not too sensitive. Follow 12-year-old Brendan (voice of Evan McGuire) as he battles Vikings and confronts an ancient serpent god on a mission to locate a legendary crystal and complete the mythical Book of Kells. The Secret of Kells Rating & Content Info Why is The Secret of Kells rated Not Rated? The consequences are honest (not every one survives) but those that do preserve art and culture in a way that is truly touching. The Secret of Kells is an independent, animated feature that gives us one of the fabled stories surrounding the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the Middle Ages featuring the four Gospels of the New Testament. It's even prompted discussions about the real Book of Kells and the history of illuminated manuscripts. History, myth and legend collide in this full-colour illustrated storybook of the animated feature Brendan and the Secret of Kells. Meanwhile, in Kells, Brendan and the other Brothers are chasing the goose . Learn more. We're updating our reviews to better highlight authentic stories and accurate, diverse representations. The percentage of users who made a verified movie ticket purchase and rated this 3.5 stars or higher. I would recommend this for kids nine and up even though we watched when my child was much younger. Your privacy is important to us. My toddler, husband and I were immediately immersed into its beauty. At the same time, they understood the Abbott was trying to protect Brendan and loved him. But he also learns that what his abbot uncle called "pagan nonsense" wasn't nonsense at all; there is magic in the woods, in the form of a beautiful fairy girl and an underground monster. Beyond its gorgeous artistry, the story is classic coming-of-age as a 12-year old boy in an 8th century Irish monastery becomes apprentice to a master illustrator against the wishes of his stern uncle, who can think only of defending against marauding Vikings. © Common Sense Media. The Secret of Kells, a beautifully-observed animated film that manages to be both charming and macabre, details the story of monastic novice Brendan’s (Evan McGuire) struggle to keep the famed Book of Kells alive in the shadow of imminent Viking attack on all he knows of a civilised world, deep inside the walls of Kells. Led by the young actors McGuire and Mooney, the voice cast is terrific. Rotten Tomatoes critics concluded that the film was "Beautifully drawn and refreshingly calm, The Secret of Kells hearkens back to animation's golden age with an enchanting tale inspired by Irish mythology." Several others have written informative reviews referencing the facets of the story - I find it incredible that some people's assessment that it is OK for the 2 to 5 year old set, but I suppose that is what this site is for - multiple opinions. A very classic film. Magnificent movie with scary creatures and a strong heroine. All rights reserved. Check back later. Suggest an update to this review. All rights reserved. 8 Ratings 90% TOMATOMETER Critics Consensus: Beautifully drawn and refreshingly calm, The Secret of Kells hearkens back to animation's golden age with an enchanting tale inspired by Irish mythology. This is a magical movie with really creative animation. It is, at the risk of hyperbole, a staggeringly lovely film that was nothing less than captivating. Who are his helpers, his mentors, his nemeses? I found it an interesting way to learn about my own Celtic and Catholic cultural heritage...We especially liked the character of Ashley the fairy! There's a magical, ethereal quality that's quite perfect considering the otherworldly elements of Brendan's quest. Not for everyone. With the help of a beautiful fairy/wolf girl named Aisling (Christen Mooney), Brendan enters a nearby enchanted forest, where he must face an ancient serpent god to find the crystal, return to the abbey and finish the sacred text. Suddenly life is … This year's third best 3D film of the year is a sumptuous visual feast. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free. The tone of the animation can turn dark, gloomy, and downright scary in parts, especially during the scenes when the Vikings are shown with their axes drawn or when a pack of red-eyed wolves circle a boy in the woods. The animation in mirrors the shimmery translucence found in illuminated texts like the one Brendan and Brother Aidan complete in the movie. I had to block my child's eyes for a number of scary parts. Common Sense is the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of all kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the 21st century. Magical animated adventure is intense but beautiful. Needless to say, the Barbarians are frightening and murderous. I think the plot may have been over her head too, and it might be easier for kids to understand if they've learned a bit of history (or I guess I could have told her myself like I did for Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron). Both my kids (7 and 10) said that during the movie... because it is dark, sad, scary and the plot is somewhat beyond them. The movie stresses mortality but in a way I regard as positive; death exists but art and faith redeem it. The movie is visually astounding, but not in any of the usual ways. BUT not a kids movie. Although The Secret of Kells was visually stunning, I honestly I came away from this film feeling as though I had wasted an hour and a half. This is an excellent film which my kids adored, the animation is excellent and makes a nice change from the standard stuff which we often see for kids, there is violence but not really scary scary stuff, I would highly recommend this to all. © Common Sense Media. Nov 24, 2014. I didn't know they'd made another so when I heard about The Secret of Kells I got it immediately. The movie's religion is a bit syncretic: both Christian and pagan religious beliefs are presented in positive terms, and the monster believed in by the fairy character is disbelieved by the monks but turns out to be real. The Barbarian invaders mercilessly set fire to a whole town and bring their axes down to kill the fleeing villagers. Animated fairy tale teaches cultural understanding. It made me interested about learning about illuminated manuscripts. They loved Brendan's courage in defying the Abbott to learn caligraphy and gathering the materials needed to learn the craft. The art flat-out blew my mind. The Norse attacks were going on at the time the movie is set in, and unless you're children are frightened by red eyes, there really isn't anything to worry about. (2,455) IMDb 7.6 1 h 15 min 2010 X-Ray ALL. The Secret of Kells is an absolutely magical story, with the most delicately beautiful animation I have seen. Fascinated, Brendan begins to disobey his uncle to help Brother Aidan find the right ingredients for ink, and in time discovers that he himself has a talent for illumination. Despite this, however, I felt as though the plot was seriously lacking. Twelve-year-old Brendan's life in the monastery at Kells is not very exciting until Aidan arrives. I absolutely loved this movie. As we drove along, we crossed an old bridge and the driver said, "Leprechauns made their home under this bridge." The Secret of Kells (DVD) : In a remote medieval outpost of Ireland, young Brendan embarks on a new life of adventure when a celebrated master illuminator arrives from foreign lands carrying a book brimming with secret wisdom and powers. The Secret of Kells, review. Much of the animation reminded me of the Cartoon Network's "Star Wars the Clone Wars" series, which itself is reminiscent of series like "Speed Racer." It is quite scary at times, but the overall story is very interesting and the animation illustration is outstanding. My children (8, 5 and an 8 year old friend) were entranced and drawn in. Set in medieval Ireland, THE SECRET OF KELLS follows 12-year-old Brendan (voiced by Evan McGuire), who lives with his uncle Abbott Cellach (Brendan Gleeson), a monk who runs the Abbey of Kells. She tells the audience about her history and how the vikingsattacked many villages and killed many people for gold. Delightful afternoon movie. Magical animated adventure is intense but beautiful. He's not just the Abbey's errand boy, he's a master illuminator in the making, and he will not let anything or anyone stop him from using his gifts. See our. 6 reviews. When is it OK to disobey? With Evan McGuire, Brendan Gleeson, Mick Lally, Christen Mooney. While chasing it, Brendan falls down from the wall and sees the outside world from a crack. Gleeson (In Bruges, Gangs of New York) is powerful as the single-minded abbott who sees no reason Brendan should waste his time on the book when raiders are on their way. There's a Viking attack that is a bit intense, though it's depicted mostly with shadowy outlines than real violence. Yes, there is violence, but it's all historical. This however, allowed us to discuss the idea of overcoming fear and understanding how strong we truly can be and how to use our talents. Adventure awaits 12 year old Brendan who must fight Vikings and a serpent god to find a crystal and complete the legendary Book of Kells. The Secret of Kells. Can't ask much more from a cartoon. Rating: * * * * By Marc Lee 30 September 2010 • 16:49 pm . Life for Brendan changes dramatically when the renowned master illuminator Brother Aidan (Mick Lally) arrives in Kells with an incomplete illuminated manuscript. Now it's our favorite movie. 2.5. If you chose to provide an email address, it will only be used to contact you about your comment. For adults, it is very artistic and enjoyable to watch - but I wish my kids hadn't seen it. The movie begins with Aisling whispering. Celtic motifs are incorporated throughout the visuals, an appropriate nod to its core subject matter: the creation of the greatest Irish illuminated manuscript, the real Book of Kells. Under the threat of Viking raids, the Abbot … Magic, fantasy, and Celtic mythology come together in a riot of color and detail that dazzle the eyes in a sweeping story about the power of imagination and faith to carry humanity through dark times. Review by Oliver Gifford. Lally and McGuire sweetly capture the important mentor-hero relationship that's essential to every great journey. The Secret of The Secret of Kells. What to Watch, Read, and Play While Your Kids Are Stuck Indoors, Common Sense Selections for family entertainment, Check out new Common Sense Selections for games, Teachers: Find the best edtech tools for your classroom with in-depth expert reviews, Actividades sobre el Mes de la Historia Afroamericana, Which Side of History? moviemanMA 4 February 2010. critics consensus. Thank you for your support. I would highly recommend this beautiful movie. The characters are brilliantly acted and have already been wonderful departure points for many conversations regarding talents, overcoming fear and the pursuit of knowledge and beauty. The Secret of Kells (2009) is the story of Brendan, a young monk. The plays. Our 6 and 10 year old's loved the story and were entranced by the images, not finding anything too scary, largely in part because the style of animation was able to suspend their perceptions of reality. With "Kells," however, stylized simplicity becomes quite simply magical, and a vehicle capable carrying a fascinating and true story/legend forward. We won't share this comment without your permission. My children (8, 5 and an 8 year old friend) were entranced and drawn in. Some families might also be concerned with the tension between religion (the main characters are all brothers in an abbey) and paganism (depicted by a fairy and a monstrous creature in the woods). THE SECRET OF KELLS is an absolutely fabulous, delightful, fanciful animated movie about young Brendan who lives in the Abbey of Kells, where he becomes the great illuminator of the Book of Kells. We stopped for petrol, and I quietly said to McHugh, "He doesn't know you're Irish and is giving us the tourist treatment." See something that needs to be addressed? On Metacritic, the film has a weighted average score of 81 out of 100, based on 20 reviews, indicating "universal acclaim". The graphics are absolutely magnificent. Review: The Secret of Kells. Brendan’s heart and imagination are captured by a famous, special book. Reviewed in the United States on August 18, 2020. When the Norsemen invade, things get a little scary, but in a general, non-explicit way that won't disturb many kids; my seven-year-old was fine. Common Sense and other associated names and logos are trademarks of Common Sense Media, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (FEIN: 41-2024986). Brendan (McGuire) is a young acolyte at an Irish monastery in medieval times. Teaches about independent thinking. Strung through it is a subtle theme of a world moving from pagan to Christian beliefs -- with elements that will seem simply fantasy to kids, but to adults, a sly view of the turning of history. Aisling, who can shift shapes from a white wolf to an alabaster-skinned girl with an enigmatic knowledge of the forest, is breathtakingly beautiful. Directed by Tomm Moore, Nora Twomey. How Technology Is Reshaping Democracy and Our Lives, National Reading Month: Get free read-alouds, stories, poems, and more on Wide Open School, Online Playdates, Game Nights, and Other Ways to Socialize at a Distance, Keeping Kids Motivated for Online Learning, A good story with a little violence but not too much, 5 Tips to Make Family Movie Night a Success. If it makes you feel better, tell your children before showing it to them that there are big nasty bad guys in it. In what way is Brendan's adventure in The Secret of Kells similar to other fictional quests? Sweet father-son tale has some very scary moments. The Book of Kells is Ireland’s greatest treasure: an ancient book filled with exquisite illuminations. Reviews from Rotten Tomatoes are not available right now. Aisling could have been cruel to Brendan when he wandered into the woods, but instead she helps him, befriends him, and teaches him the wonders of the woods. All in all, I found this a wonderful movie and my kids (10 and 7) were riveted. One character is shown near death after he has been speared, and other characters are presumed dead due to a fire. (Never before has it been so clear that a cat is essentially a geometric design.) I got this from the library on a friend's recommendation, but my 6-year-old wasn't interested in it. Beautifully drawn and refreshingly calm, The Secret of Kells hearkens back to animation's golden age with an enchanting tale inspired by Irish mythology. The Secret of Kells is an animated film from Ireland about a young Irish boy, Brendan (Evan McGuire), and his friends and family, interwoven within the story of The Book of Kells.