The Secret Of Nimh Review

Don Bluth’s The Secret of NIMH stands as a pivotal moment in animation history, marking the legendary animator’s bold departure from Disney in 1979. With a team of ex-Disney animators, Bluth sought to revive the richly detailed and emotionally resonant storytelling of classic animation, and this first feature from Don Bluth Productions reflects that ambition. Adapted from Robert C. O’Brien’s novel Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, the film delivers a heartfelt and visually striking tale of bravery, community, and the battle between selflessness and greed.

The story follows Mrs. Brisby, a widowed field mouse voiced with poignant vulnerability by Elizabeth Hartman, as she seeks to save her family from the farmer’s imminent ploughing season. Bluth’s dedication to character-driven storytelling is evident in every frame, with the film weaving themes of courage, sacrifice, and moral complexity into its narrative. Derek Jacobi’s Nicodemus lends an air of wise gravitas, while Paul Shenar’s Jenner introduces a darker, more sinister edge to the story. The depth and personality of the characters, bolstered by a stellar voice cast, make the film a compelling watch.

Visually, the Blu-ray release showcases the painstaking artistry of Bluth’s cel animation, with every hand-drawn detail brought to life in vibrant colour. However, while the transfer is sharp and the colours pop, some of the subtler textures of the original animation seem less prominent in this version. The glowing, ethereal light effects—such a hallmark of Bluth’s style—shine through beautifully, but there are moments where the remastering feels slightly inconsistent, particularly in darker scenes.

The Blu-ray release of The Secret of NIMH from Eureka Entertainment’s Masters of Cinema Series doesn’t skimp on extras, offering an impressive array of bonus materials that enrich the viewing experience and provide a deeper understanding of the film’s artistry and legacy.

This edition features two audio commentaries: one archival track with director Don Bluth and producer Gary Goldman, offering fascinating insights into the production process and creative decisions, and a brand-new commentary by animation scholar Sam Summers, author of DreamWorks Animation: Intertextuality and Aesthetics in Shrek and Beyond, who situates the film in its broader animation history.

Newly produced features include The Rats of NIMH, an on-camera interview with Bluth that delves into his thoughts on the film’s creation, and Beyond Your Wildest Dreams, an appreciation of the movie by animation expert Stacey Abbott. Both add significant value for fans of Bluth’s work. Additionally, Courage of the Heart, a video essay by children’s media expert Catherine Lester, explores the film’s central theme of motherhood, offering a fresh, critical perspective on Mrs. Brisby’s journey.

The archival extras, such as Secrets Behind the Secret, a behind-the-scenes featurette, and a stills gallery, bring a nostalgic charm, while the theatrical trailer rounds out the offering. As a cherry on top, the set includes a collector’s booklet featuring new writing by Peter C. Kunze, author of Staging a Comeback: Broadway, Hollywood, and the Disney Renaissance, which adds historical context to Bluth’s departure from Disney and his contributions to the animation landscape.

This wealth of supplementary material makes the The Secret of NIMH Blu-ray not just a treat for animation enthusiasts but a treasure trove for those who want to dive deeper into Don Bluth’s seminal work.

While The Secret of NIMH is undeniably a landmark in the evolution of American animation, this Blu-ray release doesn’t fully capitalize on its historical and artistic significance. That said, the film itself remains an essential watch, not just for animation enthusiasts but for anyone who appreciates a story told with heart and meticulous craftsmanship. For newcomers, this release is a fine introduction to one of the most visually ambitious animated features of its time. For longtime fans, it’s a chance to revisit a classic in a fresh light—if not the definitive one.