Review of The Secret of NIMH (1982) by Peter G — 19 Nov 2008

One of the most underrated classics of all time, Secret of NIMH is generally just superb on every count. Time has not been the best friend to his masterpiece, as the pacing is far too slow to keep children of today captivated and the story is merely about a mother trying to save her son from a sickness, but anyone looking for a wonderful analysis of the power of the heart will find it here.

Other faults come from the lack of explanation of the rats nature in the film (using magic and being intelligent are simply underdeveloped), but the animation is beautiful (even considering today's movies), the soundtrack is riveting and the voice overs are filled with wonderful emotion (especially from Elizabeth Hartman, in her last role ever).

The characters are funny and the antagonist is definitely a sick individual. What is most enduring about this classic is how the story is mature and rather grown up while not alienating the child audience (if only more movies treated children with the respect they deserve).

Secret of NIMH is just simply a work of art that should not be missed by anyone who enjoys animation regardless of how many flaws may be present in the film.