The Secret of Kells (2009)

Animation like this is so wonderful.  Instead of trying to do what everyone else is doing, and that's chasing Pixar, here the animators develop a style that actually honors the very work that inspired it which is also the basis of the story, the Book of Kells.  Simple shapes and interlocking ribbons of color crafted with brilliant wit in the old Insularistic way, we follow a boy named Brendan, who lives with monks in a walled-off village, become a great artist.  But to do so he must follow the teachings of Brother Aidan, a Illuminator who just escaped the destructive Vikings, as well as venture out beyond the village wall into the forest against the Abbott's orders, a domineering figure that happens to be Brendon's Uncle.  Once in the forest he becomes entranced by a forest spirit named Aisling who guides him on adventures beyond his imagination.   This is a fine film and completely deserving of its Oscar nomination.   It's a perfect balance of Celtic mythology and dramatic storytelling.  I'd be surprised if anyone who enjoys animation doesn't like this example of artful fantasy.  Grade: A-