The Secret of kells is an animated fantasy film set in 9th century Ireland, focusing on young Brendan who lives in the fortified abbey of Kells under the strict guidance of his uncle, Abbot Cellach.
Cellach is building a massive wall to protect against Viking invaders, but suddenly, brother Aidan arrives at the abbey from Lona, escaping a Viking raid and brings with him an unfinished, magical book. Aidan takes Brendan as his apprentice, sparking a desire to complete the manuscript.
Brenda must venture outside the abbey walls for the first time to create ink for the book, in the enchanted forest, he meets and befriends Aisling, a fairy-like creature who can shape-shift into a white wolf.
Brendan needs to complete the book’s most intricate page, which requires a special magnifying crystal. Brendan defeats the monster with Aisling’s help and secure the crystal.
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Vikings breach the monastery’s walls, destroying cellach’s defenses and killing many monks. Cellach is severely wounded, and his efforts to save the abbey through physical strength fail.
An adult Brendan returns to the ruined kells, reunites with his remorseful uncle and shares the completed book, which brings light and comfort, showing that art can survive destruction.
The Secret of Kells is a drama every person who has ever been told “art is useless” needs to watch before they build their next wall, it is a drama; the eyes don’t watch but they read it and makes you ask the question “do you hide from darkness or make light?”
Directed by: Tomm Moore and Nora Twomey
Cast: Evan McGuire, Brendan Gleeson, Christen Mooney, Mick Lally
Running time:75 minutes
Watch trailer here:
