Review of The Secret of NIMH (1982) by Steven K — 29 Sep 2008
Frustrated with the output Disney was churning out in the 1970's, one of its youngest animators, Don Bluth, left the studio to form his own production company. His first project from the new studio, THE SECRET OF NIMH, an alternatingly scary and heartwarming fantasy about a widowed mouse who tries to save her sickly son, remains what many would call his magnum opus.
And it certainly is, thanks to the luscious animation, strong storytelling, and a fine voice cast. Also worthy of mention is Jerry Goldsmith's musical score, which was his first for animation (the second being Disney's MULAN).
Sadly, many of Bluth's subsequent projects would begin a gradual downhill slide, never again reaching the standards of excellence set by SECRET OF NIMH, although there were some exceptions, like AN AMERICAN TAIL, THE LAND BEFORE TIME, and, to a lesser extent, THUMBELINA.
Even after all these years, SECRET OF NIMH holds up well as both great entertainment and a fine achievement in animation.
This review of The Secret of NIMH (1982) was written by Steven K on 29 Sep 2008.
The Secret of NIMH has generally received very positive reviews.
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