“The Secret of NIMH” is a 1982 animated film that falls under the fantasy/adventure genre. Based on the 1971 children’s novel “Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH” by Robert C. O’Brien, the movie was released during a time when animated films primarily targeted younger audiences. However, “The Secret of NIMH” managed to captivate both children and adults with its nuanced storytelling and memorable characters.
Directed by Don Bluth, who gained recognition for his involvement with various Disney animated films, including “The Rescuers” and “The Fox and the Hound”, “The Secret of NIMH” marked Bluth’s directorial debut. The screenplay was penned by Bluth along with Gary Goldman, John Pomeroy, and Will Finn, who worked closely with Bluth at the time.
The film was produced by Aurora Productions and released by United Artists. Despite being an independent production, “The Secret of NIMH” showcased stunning animation and drew inspiration from Disney’s animation techniques. The movie was notable for its detailed character designs and atmospheric backgrounds, which brought the world of NIMH to life.
The plot revolves around Mrs. Brisby, a timid and determined field mouse who embarks on a perilous journey to save her family. The main conflict arises when Brisby’s youngest son falls ill, and she learns that they need to move their home before the farmer plows the field. Seeking guidance, Mrs. Brisby turns to a group of highly intelligent rats who have escaped from a scientific lab where they were the subjects of scientific experimentation. With their help, Brisby sets out to overcome the challenges and ultimately find a solution that will ensure the survival of her family.
The movie features the vocal talents of Elizabeth Hartman as Mrs. Brisby, while other notable cast members include Derek Jacobi as Nicodemus, Dom DeLuise as Jeremy, and Hermione Baddeley as Auntie Shrew. Each voice actor brought depth and personality to their respective characters, enriching the film’s emotional impact.
Upon its release, “The Secret of NIMH” received positive reviews from critics. It was praised for its mature themes, complex characters, and the depth of its storytelling. Audiences were captivated by the film’s suspenseful moments and its ability to tackle darker themes while still maintaining a family-friendly tone.
“The Secret of NIMH” achieved moderate success at the box office, earning over $14 million worldwide. While it did not reach the commercial success of some other animated films of its time, it became a cult classic and garnered a dedicated following who appreciated its artistry and storytelling.
The movie’s impact on popular culture can be seen through its continued popularity and the lasting impression it has made on generations of viewers. Its success played a significant role in establishing Don Bluth as a prominent figure in the animation industry, leading to further successes such as “An American Tail” and “The Land Before Time”. The film also served as an inspiration for future animated films, influencing the visual style and storytelling of subsequent animated works.
Although “The Secret of NIMH” did not have any direct sequels or prequels, it paved the way for related media in the form of a direct-to-video sequel titled “The Secret of NIMH 2: Timmy to the Rescue” released in 1998. However, it should be noted that this sequel did not reach the same critical acclaim or success as the original film.
In conclusion, “The Secret of NIMH” stands as a beloved and timeless animated film that defied the conventions of its time. With its stunning animation, compelling characters, and mature storytelling, it continues to capture the imaginations of audiences today. The movie’s legacy is evident in the influence it had on subsequent animated films, solidifying its place in animation history.
