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Few people in America were aware of The Secret of Kells before it received a surprising Oscar nod this year for Best Animated Feature. However, it wasn't a secret in Europe where in 2009 it received recognition at the Dublin International Film Festival and the European Film Awards among others.

The film's story centers on an abundantly curious orphan boy named Brendan (voiced by Evan McGuire) who lives in the walled Abbey of Kells in Kells, County Meath. There, he is mentored by his uncle, Abbot Cellach (Brendan Gleeson, Troy), a stern man so obsessed with fortifying his abbey that he has forgotten the importance of his faith.

In the midst of Abbot Cellach's slavish preparations, Brother Aidan (Mick Lally), arrives from the island of Iona after Vikings have destroyed his abbey. Along with his cat, Brother Aidan has brought along an illuminated holy book, obviously a Bible - although it is never called that.

Eager to impress Brother Aidan, Brendan disobeys his uncle and enters the forest where he meets an impish, shape-changing fairy named Aisling (Christen Mooney). With her help, he overcomes his fears and brings back items Brother Aidan needs to teach him how to be a master illuminator.

Unfortunately for Kells, bloodthirsty Vikings arrive earlier than expected, putting the abbey and the Book of Kells in great peril.

The Secret of Kells tries to find an appeal with both kids and adults. There are small bits of silly humor sprinkled in with monk characters who look like they just stepped out of a Disney movie. Then there are images that are sinister, violent and filled with death that are a bit much for younger children.

Brendan is a wonderful central character for kids and Aisling is pure whimsical fun, although she is a bit underused. The strength of the film is in its colorful, traditional animation, which may not be appealing to younger generations who are now used to computer animation and 3D.

What's puzzling is that for a story revolving around a real, illuminated Latin manuscript created by Celtic monks circa 800, The Secret of Kells is devoid of any references to Christianity except for a Celtic cross that sits in front of a large tower. Saint Patrick would be disappointed by this apparent attempt to avoid offending anyone.

On a letter grade scale from A being excellent to F for failing, The Secret of Kells receives a B-.
    
The Secret of Kells is rated G and has a running time of 75 minutes.

Now showing through May 20 @
Tivoli Cinemas
Westport Manor Square, 4050 Pennsylvania, KCMO
Visit www.tivolikc.com or call 913-383-7756 for show times.

By Michael D. Smith

Indie Film Editor

Michael D. Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts in history at College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri followed by a Master of Arts in history at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Inspired by such critics as Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert, Michael started reviewing films in 1992 for College of the Ozarks's student-run newspaper. After returning to the Kansas City area in 1994, he continued film reviewing by writing for the Cass County Democrat Missourian in Harrisonville.

In 2000 Michael joined Sun Publications in Overland Park, Kansas where he served as its film critic and Arts and Entertainment Editor. During his tenure there, he was also the film critic for the "Fine Arts Radio Hour" and "Celebrity Scoop" radio shows on KXTR. After leaving the Sun in late 2002, he became the A&E writer for the Olathe News in Olathe, Kansas. He also worked as a freelance writer for The Squire in Leawood, Showcase Publishing in Lake Ozark, Missouri and the Kansas City Star.

Michael is currently a member of the Kansas City Film Critics Circle, a professional film critic organization established in 1966 by the late Dr. James Loutzenhiser.

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