Inexplicably (to me), Hayao Miyazaki's Ponyo didn't get an Oscar nod for Best Animated Picture, but maybe (just maybe) it was nudged out of the way by this very cool-looking Irish cartoon that New Mexicans can see starting tonight (and running through at least April 15) at Santa Fe's Center for Contemporary Arts. I'll be hitting the 11:30 a.m. Sunday showing if I'm not too hung over, and I recommend you do the same.
The 75-minute film seems entirely OK for kids used to concepts like death and violence and beauty but is Not Rated. CCA says "this fantastical, breathtaking spiritual animation follows as the 12-year-old Brendan fights Vikings and a serpent god to find a crystal and complete the legendary Book of Kells. The story begins when Brother Aidan, a celebrated master illuminator, initiates Brendan into the art of illustration, awakening his hidden, but extraordinary talents. But finishing the magnificent book means a remarkable quest beyond the abbey walls and deep into an enchanted forest." Sounds awesome. See ya there.
Totally worth the cruise from ABQ to SF. Like an illuminated manuscript come to life. Certain elements reminded me of Princess Mononoke (the magical fairy wolf-girl, the penetrating black tentacles of the pagan entity Crom Cruach) but that's where the similarity ends. It's a little harsh for little ones at times, but the violence is very stylized. The fairy-in-the-forest parts are so amazing and kid-friendly that they make up for any overly dark moments.
The cat steals the show. Check this trippy scene:
The fact that preachy, noisy UP! got the Oscar over this film is more annoying than ever. Pixar = overrated.
