Adventure, action and danger await 12 year old Brendan who must fight Vikings and a serpent god to find a crystal and complete the legendary Book of Kells. Brendan is hard at work with his uncle, Abbott Cellach and the other monks, helping to strengthen the abbey walls as protection against the Viking raids. But a new life of adventure begins with the arrival of Brother Aidan and his cat, a celebrated master illuminator who initiates Brendan into the art of illumination, awakening his hidden, but extraordinary talents. In order to finish the magnificent book, Brendan has to overcome his deepest fears on a secret quest that will take him for the first time ever, beyond the abbeys walls into the enchanted forest where dangerous mythical creatures hide. It is here that he meets the fairy Aisling, a mysterious young white wolf/girl, who will become his closest friend and helper. But with the terrifying Viking Hordes closing in, will Brendan succeed in his quest to illuminate the darkness and prove that enlightenment is the best fortification against barbarians? –Transilvania International Film Festival
Fascinating visuals! I really like the use of water colours and the style of it reminded me of The Legend of Zelda: The WInd Waker, which I love. Story line could have been better but all in all fantastic family film.
One of the most gorgeous animated films, of both recent and all time, that chronicles the mythology of one of the most gorgeous illuminated manuscripts of all time. The vibrant colours, the beautiful accents, the incredibly inventive sequences - it all adds up to a wonderful piece of fantasy. The second visit is just as enchanting as the first.
Some beautiful images but the story is both superficial and obtuse. No doubt those versed in Celtic lore (or those enamored of anything Celtic) will be able read some meaning into the film - but whatever they read into it won't be something that was in the movie.
Doug Cummings has been in no hurry to post his annotated lists of the best of 2009 and the decade, but the wait's been worth it. His #10
I remember the morning that Oscar nominations came out and hearing which films were up for the Best Animated Feature, completely perplexed when The Secret of Kells was announced. I had been nodding… read review
Cartoon Saloon founders Paul Young and Tomm Moore (“Skunk Fu!” & “Cúilín Dualach”) take their inspiration from the ninth-century illuminated manuscript the “Book of Kells” for their feature debut… read review
