The Secret of NIMH - Nostalgia Critic

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It's been 40 years since Don Bluth's masterpiece came out, and Nostalgia Critic got one of the animators (Philo Barnhart) to join him in talking about this amazing film. Let's take a look at The Secret of NIMH.
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The Secret of NIMH is a 1982 American animated fantasy adventure film directed by Don Bluth in his directorial debut and based on Robert C. O'Brien's children's novel, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. The film features the voices of Elizabeth Hartman, Peter Strauss, Arthur Malet, Dom DeLuise, John Carradine, Derek Jacobi, Hermione Baddeley, and Paul Shenar.
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#TheSecretofnimh #nostalgiacritic #donbluth

[@ChannelAwesome]

What's your favorite Don Bluth film? Special thanks to Philo Barnhart! facebook.com/people/Philo-Barnhart/100004429998309/ Follow us on Twitch - www.twitch.tv/channelawesome​

[@jerricablackcat4303]

Thumbelina

[@jerricablackcat4303]

Can you talk about My Babysitter's a Vampire? Does anyone else remember when that was a thing?

[@deshawnedwards6412]

Review Steven Universe: The Movie.

[@scottketchie5703]

This one

[@seanpatrickcain2]

The Land Before Time

[@DarkKnightofAnime]

I love how Doug isn’t shying away from reviewing movies he loves now

[@ryanmorejon5813]

Agreed

[@chasehedges6775]

Same

[@JurassicProductions]

And how he sometimes gets people who were a part of those projects to actually come in either as cameos or as ways to learn more about said project!

[@darthcinema4262]

And isn't afraid to point out what few flaws they might have.

[@DigiRangerScott]

It’s been that way for years now. Right when the editorials were replaced by more reviews

[@chillinsquirtle]

I love that Doug is like "yeah sure we got a legend in animation who has worked on masterpieces but that's not a big enough of a hook.. let's make him a cannibal"

[@animorph17]

Trying to draw in the vore crowd I guess?

[@Misfit_Kitten]

I think it's to make a point about sweet movies with a dark undercurrent.

[@NillanthirZ]

Knowing Philo, the cannibalism part was probably his idea to begin with.

[@elizabethshaw7472]

And I love that the animation legend was totally on board with it.

[@hunterv9983]

I really wanna know how much money he was paid to get on this channel.

[@hazbinotakusimp2182]

"how DARE you insult Mrs. Brisbee's honor!?" never expected him to be so aggressive about defending a sweet mouse character 🤣🤣🤣

[@kuromyou7969]

I mean, the comment made no sense. A single mother worried about her child is not a twerp.

[@hazbinotakusimp2182]

@@kuromyou7969 bruh right? A twerp? What part about her is even remotely close to being a twerp?

[@jalenikezeue4114]

Ok I know those Two Men Are supposed to be legendary reviewers But Sometimes there Words can be Harsh

[@sebastianemond5313]

5:55 - 7:53 I'm still catching up on Elizabeth Hartman's career. Aside from Secret of Nimh, I've seen her in that awesome biographical action flick, Walking Tall, starring Joe Don Baker, and the gothic thriller, The Beguiled, starring Clint Eastwood. One I still need to see is A Patch of Blue, starring Sidney Poitier from In the Heat of the Night. And by the way, @Channel Awesome, still find the ending of Demo Reel with that performance in that sketch fan sequel to A Patch of Blue, Blue Patches, by Malcolm and Rachel underrated. 👏👏👏😁😁

[@seasonembrace3624]

Reminds me of roger and eberts review of the black Caldron where they apparently complained about the voice actors being welsh instead they wanted an all American voice cast. wat 🤨

[@wadeyhyena1657]

I'd say the saddest part of rewatching this movie nowadays is the fact that the lead actress, Elizabeth Hartman, took her own life five years later due to an ongoing battle with depression. Her performance in this movie is one that will inspire generations to come, and I'm very pleased to say Ms. Brisby's development felt genuinely empowering. Sure, she isn't flipping around, kicking ass like Mulan would. But she's actively rushing into danger, for the sake of her kids. If that's not empowerment, I don't know what is. All in all, the actress was a marvellous woman, a marvellous voice actress, and a person who'll influence legions of female voice actors to come. RIP. Elizabeth Hartman (Voice of Ms. Brisby)

[@gageperuti5519]

Doug even did a sort of tribute to Hartman in the final episode of Demo Reel (Blue Patches, not The Review Must Go On). Donnie's mother's story is similar to her's. It kind of got a sad smile from me when I realized it.

[@ZombifiedBuizel]

The fans have taken to referring to the rat as Mrs. Jonathan Elizabeth Brisbee in Hartman's honor...at least according to the wiki. The Secret of N.I.M.H. is my favorite Don Bluth movie.

[@estebansantibaneztwo-oh-plusth]

This Amazon-owned MGM movie is really, really, really, scary.

[@Zeithri]

I didn't know this. That's so sad.

[@nickmanzo8459]

Mrs. Brisby’s fear also connects her more to nature. She isn’t a hyper intelligent mouse, she is supposed to operate only on instinct. In nature, if a mouse mother has a child who is dying, nature dictates that she allow the child to die to save those who should live. In the end, her love for her family is too strong, and she shows the rats that if a common garden field mouse can overcome her own nature to activate the power in that stone, then they can overcome their own natural greed and find the courage to move onward. The stone burns her hands, and at first, her instinct is to drop it. She then bravely endures the pain, overcoming her animal nature to save the day.

[@catspaw3092]

After she faints from using the stones power to save her family & home the rats are just stunned that this ordinary mouse was able to unlock the power of the stone. Plus they just stand there & stare at her motionless form Justin looked so afraid to get near her he only moved a couple of steps towards her.

[@nickthepick8043]

The perfect way to explain Nurture over Nature. We may have instinctual traits, and many of them are unpleasant, but this is why we can move beyond them and choose to grander than them. We are more than our problems and struggles.

[@flufflewarrior]

Wow. That was kinda eye opening to read

[@nickmanzo8459]

@@flufflewarrior thanks.

[@Queenofobscurepairings]

Yep and since her husband was special mouse from being a test subject at NIMH...He did teach her to read too and stuff...Remember...I think she met him after his Nimh life when one day he was in a field or something...

[@brendanlee14]

For years, I’ve heard either Critic or Doug cite this as one of his favorite animated movies so I love to see him get the chance to dive into it for a full video

[@chasehedges6775]

It’s gonna be awesome

[@coolnerdlll6053]

Mine is Coco right now, but it varies frequently.

[@Adamant_Adam]

my favorite movie and book as well, or at least top 3. I even have a lil mouse names Mrs. Brisby :) (I had 3 others, Yuki, Bianca, and Remy, but Brisby is all who's left now)

[@stickjohnny]

Ok well I'm already glad he doesn't tear it to shreds because childhood. Probably watched this film 3 dozen times as a kid.

[@chasehedges6775]

@@absynt2010 33?

[@TamaraLynnchambers]

Working with Philo was genuinely wonderful. He was so kind and full of INCREDIBLE stories. Maybe the coolest guest we’ve ever had. So sweet and fun…I feel so lucky that this is my job 😭💙 love this episode! Great work Doug!

[@TamaraLynnchambers]

Even if I only have one hand now

[@rincamilia752]

@@TamaraLynnchambers I'm surprised you came out of this episode alive since you were cocooned to be eaten by an animator

[@nomorebonfires]

@@rincamilia752 probably because of the same fairy that was seen at the of the Scooby Doo Mystery Begins review

[@rogue7723]

It was also very nice of Philo to bring in movies for them to watch during breaks to unwind.

[@jacechretin4597]

@@TamaraLynnchambers is that why your profile picture shows someone else’s hand trying to give you a sucker? Nice continuity 👍🏻

[@KingOfMumbles485...]

Though Mrs. Brisby's first name is never mentioned in the film, it's generally accepted that her first name is Elizabeth, in honor and memory of her late voice actress, Elizabeth Hartman.

[@riakun]

My best friend told me that, and I still think it is the sweetest and most perfect name for her 😢

[@sliat1981]

No it’s not

[@riakun]

@@sliat1981 almost everyone I've met who loved the Secret of Nimh universally agrees this, you can call this a fandom's head cannon. So yes. A lot of people do consider Mrs. Brisby's name to be Elizabeth. Edit: fixed a couple words because text to speech is a nightmare and I don't proofread as much as I should

[@sliat1981]

@@riakun no it’s what you want to believe. There’s. I evidence for it. She’s just Mrs Brisley 👍

[@riakun]

@@sliat1981 I know it's not confirmed, but a lot of people I know just universally agrees that Elizabeth would be her name, until it's actually confirmed

[@mwroach1251]

Channel Awesome: "Hey, Philo, will you please be in my Secret of NIHM review?" Philo Barnhart: "Sure!" CA: "Sweet! And will you please tell us production stories and fun facts about the film?" PB: "My pleasure!" CA: "Great! One more request... can we portray you as a shameless cannibal?" PB: "..." CA: "..." PB: "Sir, I would be honored."

[@phantomstrider]

"Fear is an intellectual chilli pepper" 20:49 One of the most strangely astute definitions of fear I've ever heard 😆 Was really insightful getting Philo Barnhart's commentary on this classic.

[@CatKun1234]

Hi phantom strider you do awesome top 10’s

[@manuelalbertoromero9528]

And his cannibalistic tastes.

[@johnpeters5987]

Phantom strider you don’t know anything you wouldn’t know a good movie if it slapped you in the face.

[@PeachWookiee]

@John Peters: This is certainly a good movie!

[@erainmartinez8175]

@@PeachWookiee She is so Kawaii (Cute) 6:40

[@shyguyry2033]

I love how many risks this movie took. Animation, how dark the story and theme was, the message, the dialogue, all very adult, and it's remembered as a classic.

[@dreamguardian8320]

Indeed.

[@retrofan4963]

Same with An American Tail.

[@Sir_Adam]

I recently saw it and really can't see why its so beloved? The story was all over the place, characters are introduced and then nothing. And the amulet has no reason for being.

[@shyguyry2033]

@Sir_Adam the story focuses on the plight of Mrs. Brisby, and the mice and rats taking over or leaving the farm. That's pretty much it. There are a lot of characters but the story focuses entirely on Mrs. Brisby. As for the amulet the entire point was for it to be this strange thing, no one knew what it was supposed to do and why. It's the unknown. The supernatural.

[@Sir_Adam]

@@shyguyry2033 It seemed to me to mostly be more about the visuals than the story. And a lot of people seem to only like it because they grew up with it.

[@walkerlocker6126]

While Brutus the guard did scare me, the scariest scene to me as a kid was when Brisbee is trapped in that cage. The absolute animalistic way she panics and freaks out trying to escape, even accidentally harming herself, was so disturbing to me. It actually helped inspire a lot of animal empathy in me as a child, and I went from the stereotypical kid way of playing with animals (too rough, too much, no boundaries) to being very gentle and understanding with them. This scene helped me understand what being a pet might be like from their point of view, and I just knew I never wanted to induce fear in an animal the same way that Brisbee experienced

[@matthewjones6786]

That's so cool. I love that it wasn't a plot point or blatant moral that helped you, but the way the animation communicated a feeling.

[@alexklepp6479]

I find it amusing that the animators from Don Bluth films are portrayed in these sociopathic ways. It's also cool that Philo Barnhart was able to provide his own stories about working in the animation industry. Animators don't often get the credit that they deserve. I did know about the controversy with the name Frisby.

[@KTKomedy2813]

Philo Barnhart was quite an entertaining guest to have, with some very interesting tales to tell, as well as a great comedic performance.

[@ChannelAwesome]

He's the best!!

[@Metroid22540]

Right? He wasn't just a cameo, he was actually informative. I never knew the Owl was so cleverly edited by literally scratching the recording and splicing in the B for Brisby. And that's the 80's, it wasn't like today where someone could just use a professional program, it took a professional craftsman a way to preserve a cast member's legacy.

[@LadyOnikara]

I really love that outfit!

[@ShawsOwn]

I'm reading this comment as Philo just delivered the perfect "No" while salting Tamara's head. Dude should have done more voice acting. He is great.

[@mrrunodan8119]

@@ChannelAwesome Next Nostalgia Critic Reviews Suggestions: 6 Underground Doogal Arctic Dogs Power Rangers 2017 Animals United The Loud House Movie RV with Robin Williams Armageddon Captain Underpants Monster Truck

[@Tricob1974]

Regarding Mrs. Brisby's motivation as a "Dragon drugger" volunteer, let's remember a philosophy that was popular in the 1980s - "Let him rest in peace". Its heyday was in Medieval times, which the movie makes visual references to. As long as Johnathan's goal was *not* fulfilled, he could *not* rest in peace. This was Mrs. Brisby's prime motivation for volunteering.

[@walkerlocker6126]

Mrs. Brisbee was the perfect protagonist for this. In order to pull off a world so unforgiving and brutal, she was the breath of fresh air and hope a child audience needs. Like Critic said, without her this world would just be another Watership Down. Instead it felt like a reflection on reality: sometimes harsh, unfair, and dark, but surround yourself with the right people and attitude and it's bearable

[@shadowofdread7018]

Having Philo Barnhart come in to do a funny skit and also give behind-the-scenes facts about the movie was truly wonderful. You can tell just from how he talks that he loved making this film, and he seems like a really nice guy too

[@Twinklethefox9022]

Wait that's the real guy?

[@hart3742]

He is a really nice guy I've met him before

[@CelestialxTrash]

@@Twinklethefox9022 YES! Doug also had Don Bluth on the show before his passing!

[@chasehedges6775]

Mrs. Brisby is how you do a character right. She’s afraid but possesses indomitable courage.

[@LucyLioness100]

And Elizabeth Hartmann’s timid yet excellent vocal work really fit the characterization

[@chasehedges6775]

@@LucyLioness100 💯

[@orangeslash1667]

@@LucyLioness100 This film was her very last role.

[@chasehedges6775]

@Gromit AVGCP AYTCA 💯💯

[@orangeslash1667]

@Gromit AVGCP AYTCA Originally she was going to be called Mr.s Frisby, because thats what's she's called in the book. Don Bluth felt that they made to change it or they would get sued by Womo, the company that makes the Frisby disk.

[@kirstenirwin9084]

It's so cool that Philo was part of this episode! I loved hearing about the animation process and his perspective certainly gave the review more depth. And my heart just warmed with his story about Julie Andrews. I can't stop smiling.

[@smdias65]

Cool! My dad worked on NIMH (and also "The Chipmunk Adventure"), so it's near and dear to my heart. It was great to hear Philo's stories!

[@thekaiser3815]

Did he eat people too 0-0

[@matthewfarmer2520]

I have this movie on DVD now got it for a dollar at a use video shop. I was 7 in 1982 it was my childhood, I'm 47 now.

[@ChristionGirl45]

I always love when they have a guest on the show, it can't just be a normal like "Hey this is one the animators" or "Hey this is one of the voice actors!" No, they always have to be doing something crazy like eating other people, and I love it! 😄

[@claymathewselevator8121]

Or leaving them with talking bookshelf’s like the guy who wrote the Flintstone Vitamin’s jingle

[@EgonTheGreat.]

@@claymathewselevator8121 one million strong!

[@MovieFan1912]

@@EgonTheGreat. 🎶And growing.🎶

[@claymathewselevator8121]

@@MovieFan1912My favorite commercials special

[@asarishepard8171]

maybe thats how movies like this are great and still hold up :P human sacrifice.

[@SwaggyG_2102]

One thing that I love The Secret of Nimh is how the protagonist isn't a Mary Sue, and actually struggles against the adversities that she comes across. She knows that she'll most likely die if she's not careful enough, so it's clear to see why she's so worried most of the time. Nonetheless, she still carries on and powers through it, not for herself, but for her family, more specifically her son, who would've died had it not been for Ms. Brisby's courage.

[@leephillips4402]

People wrote better strong female protagonists when strong female protagonists weren't in high demand. Sad but true.

[@hpatss4966]

Ms. Brisby needs to teach modern writers how to write agent female characters.

[@animorph17]

Not a mary sue by today's standards, but if you look at old reviews you can find all sorts of hate over the fact it's a female lead. With people upset that the husband never shows up and saying the film is terrible because we don't folllow his story instead. There IS an actual argument for that case as the books do detail more about the husband's life. Important thing to remember? The father was experimented on and got the supermouse genes. Frisby/Brisby depending on which media you ask, was just a completely normal field mouse.

[@ThatPurpleGirl81]

Agreed. True courage isn't lack of fear, it's overcoming fear and persisting in spite of it.

[@kingthe13]

The thing is there's nothing wrong with Mary sues (literally sometimes) we have male versions since forever but most people don't complain unless there really bland and the complaints are on the blandness not the Mary stue?(forget what the male version is called) But since it's a female people are more critical in every aspect of them from what they wear to even the most minor of flaws yet they also bitch if they have no flaws yet they focus on any flaws that were given ignoring all positives. There's really no winning for writers.

[@runedragon1985]

I'm genuinely surprised they got one of the original animators to appear and share old stories about the movie's production. I think it's really cool that we get to learn some neat little stories from such an auspicious person. He must have been an absolute delight to talk to, provided he wasn't chewing on your knees.

[@SewerShark25]

Man, Don Bluth was the high water mark of Disney animation. He had such a distinct style. When I was a kid, I KNEW I was watching Disney when I saw his animation.

[@erainmartinez8175]

The Best 80s movie ever

[@dreamguardian8320]

Don Bluth is truly a legendary animator. There will never be an animator as great as him. I even wonder what life might've been like if Don Bluth was more successful than Disney, maybe we've would've gotten more animated movies made by Don Bluth and all in beautiful 2D animation. Life just won't be the same, when Don Bluth leaves.

[@dreamguardian8320]

@@erainmartinez8175 The 80s, how I miss them.

[@erainmartinez8175]

@@dreamguardian8320 same here mates

[@TheFrugalVideoGamer]

I still *really* want a review of "The Last Unicorn" at some point. Maybe on Christopher Lee's birthday, since he portrayed King Haggard and had intended on reprising the role if a live-action version ever came about.

[@stringtheories9820]

TWO VOTES

[@j-manjr8127]

3 votes

[@avosmash2121]

Same

[@PrinsaVossum]

I've never seen The Last Unicorn, but whenever I hear about it, I think of Danny from Ninja Sex Party and Game Grumps.

[@Myuutsuu85]

This is a must. I am still amazed how Christopher Lee dubbed himself for the german version of the movie.

[@patrickkanas3874]

That story about Philo running into Juile Anderson is so relatable. I can't count how many times I've ran into people who were friends with my parents and they ask if I'm the little guy that did something funny when I was four

[@user-cx6lq8mt5g]

Justin always kinda reminded me of Howl from Howl’s Moving Castle. They both give off this charming, mischievous, yet flirty vibe whenever their on screen that you just can’t help but find attractive.

[@baddragonite]

I think this movie is what made me love fantasy as a genre, as well as medieval weaponry with that cool sword design the villain has

[@koneheadcokehead4981]

The one thing I can say about Don Bluth is I always thought Don Bluth was really under appreciative and this one of the biggest reasons why. It just when you put in as much work and craft as you can the better the overall picture will be.

[@SandraNLN]

I should point out a pretty big flaw in your statement. Do you mean to say that Bluth was 'unappreciaTED'? Saying that he's 'unappreciative' implies he was a dick to work with who didn't value his staff. From context I can get what you mean, I assume, but it would be better to fix that typo since it completely flips your meaning.

[@Alterhumanity]

This was the film that made me pursue a career in animation. At age 16 it was like a light switch turned on and I knew I had to be part of it. 15 years and thousands of hours of work later, I still hold this film closer to my heart than any other. Thank you Don Bluth and team for sticking it out and making such a wonderful film out of your garage.

[@kittycheshire5099]

Same thing happened to me, but with Inside Out. Now, I'm about to start studying animation in college.

[@vector6977]

What films have you worked on?

[@bluerobin7051]

How did your career end up?

[@JustinProper]

I was named after Justin. At first I thought, "Seriously I was named after a rat?" But when I finally watched the movie, I nearly cried. So many aspects of my life finally make sense now. It's always good to know where you came from, & once you finally get those answers, life becomes so much easier. I am HONORED to be named after him.

[@moon7shinev150]

That’s pretty cool. Fun fact Justin’s voice actor Peter Strauss loved the character so much that he also named his own son after Justin

[@TheomanZero]

When I first saw this movie, I immediately decided I hated it just because they changed so much stuff from the book. But when I started watching Nostalgia Critic and he said it was one of his favorite movies, it made me think there was something I missed. This movie made me realize that an adaptation does not have to be totally accurate to be good. Thanks to that, I was able to enjoy a lot of media that I would never have given a chance before.

[@sylvirgiomanach1491]

I decided back when Blood And Chocolate came out that I just have to look at movie adaptations as movies instead of as adaptations. Because it's a FANTASTIC movie, but the only things it has in common with the book are... some of the names and the presence of werewolves.

[@Metroid22540]

That's kind of the beauty of adaptations, you can offer different takes on a source material. Some of it works, some of it doesn't, you could have two polar opposite minds working on a project like the original Mary Poppins movie back in the 60's - one wanting to keep to her source material that was much harsher and not nearly as neat and pretty as Julie Andrews, but became a beloved household movie in the hands of Walt Disney. Sure, Goff wasn't happy with Walt at all for what he did with her story, but in the end, she said it was a good movie, it just wasn't a movie about her book, but "learned to live with it."

[@petr79]

the book explains via science and biology why the mice and rats wear clothes, have miniature tools and appliances and speak and understand human language and live longer in an original way. All this covers more than half of the book. Movie replaces this with magic, which has been done countless times. Hope the new animated series will be more faithful to the books.

[@Metroid22540]

@@petr79 Just consider it a different interpretation! Lotta good stories can come outta that. I mean, look at the testy history between Walt Disney and P.L Travers for Mary Poppins. People love Walt Disney's movie adaptation, but Travers disliked it immensely because she felt it betrayed her books and her vision for the movie.

[@petr79]

@@Metroid22540Adaptation of the book would be like the Matrix for animals kind of revelation. Far too much to handle. Not surprising that the sequels tone down that part focusing on the characters instead.

[@vitopampalone4824]

Mrs. Brisby is one of the best example of a strong female character done right!

[@erainmartinez8175]

She's so awesomely cute 13:17

[@j0ellyfish]

Eh. She was a breeder, so not really.

[@sylvirgiomanach1491]

@@j0ellyfish eh. I am VERY firmly CF, but having kids doesn't make her less strong. If anything, they make her stronger. They're her motivation to be brave. They're her motivation to find her inner strength. But that doesn't make her strength less real.

[@j0ellyfish]

@@sylvirgiomanach1491 So she was only brave because she was saddled with children lmao.

[@AxlPatrol]

@@j0ellyfish you can't say you value strong fear characters while disparaging motherhood.

[@LucyLioness100]

I’m surprised it’s taken this long for Doug to cover “NIMH” knowing how much he enjoys this film. Now he has to cover the “Land Before Time” films to see how deep the rabbit hole went with a ton of poor sequels

[@tabuukiller13]

Hey 2-10 weren’t poor. Past that yeah. But also a classic that will forever remain in my life

[@ElGreco15]

@@tabuukiller13 it's been so long I almost got whiplash about there being over ten movies. I only remember the first.

[@adnanasif9538]

The good ones 3 4 The bearable ones 8 5 6 2 The rest of the sequels are just not good

[@madisontb529]

Fun fact, my grandpa, Jacques Balutin, does the voice of Jeremy the Crow in the French dubbing! He also does one of the Vultures in the Jungle Book, as well as Sammy in Fritz the Cat!

[@serenitythesiren5031]

Cool!

[@walkerlocker6126]

I love that while working on a kid's film, they watched The Thing on a lunch break and used it for INSPIRATION. Even if it is just the opening, that took some balls to even pitch to someone. I can see why Disney was clutching its pearls

[@esteemedmortal5917]

My dad loved this movie. I associate it strongly with him. He passed away almost four years ago but it brings me a smile to remember watching it with him.

[@alim.9801]

May he rest in peace 💜

[@squeaktheswan2007]

Sorry for your loss.

[@EatCarbs]

Sorry for your loss

[@j0ellyfish]

I'm so sorry. My dads favorite movie was Cheech and chong - always watch it again every year for the memories.

[@robertlauncher]

Deepest condolences

[@Markimark151]

Secret of NIHM is one of my favorite animated movies of the 1980s, this and Land Before Time. I’m surprised that Don Bluth was overlooked by critics, despite his animated movies doing better than Disney movies at the time!

[@SomeYouTubeTraveler]

I think Disney had so enraptured everyone that it was hard for anyone to really "break out." Beautiful animation really was taken for granted, especially considering it now that no one does it all by hand anymore. Hearing Philo describe editing out the owl saying "Frisbee" and doing his and Nicodemus's eyes gives me the same vibes as hearing discussions on Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park, and the original Star Wars trilogy. Nothing really beats practical effects for that sense of grounded wonder and heartfelt craftsmanship.

[@Briaaanz]

I think Disney did everything they could to bury Don Bluth's studio, like re-releasing their classic films to theaters when a Bluth film would be premiering

[@Markimark151]

@@SomeKZbinTraveler because Disney didn’t want their rival animation studios to grow, that’s how much they enraptured Dreamworks and Don Bluth with Disney’s predatory marketing!

[@Markimark151]

@@Briaaanz especially when Disney movies like little mermaid and beauty and the beast were released on the same day for an opening day Don Bluth movie.

[@cmw12]

For some reason I find this review highly rewatchable. It’s Philo, of course, but you’ve also managed to put to together an abridged version of the movie that focuses on all the best parts!

[@cuff2860]

This might be one of the funnier, quiet openings you guys have done in a while. I absolutely love it when you guys bring in people involved in the movie, please keep bringing them in! Philo had tons of fascinating tidbits (although some inside knowledge was definitely required to understand a bit of the jargon and techniques).

[@DanGamingFan2846]

Don Bluth's debut feature film. I only ever saw the first 30 minutes of this, but I remember it being freaking amazing! Especially the owl. Edit: I love how this review's gimmick is as dark as the movie, And I'm always impressed that you can get these high-profile guests.

[@jenkzkh]

You can watch it on KZbin for free!!!

[@jamesmoyner7499]

Look up a short film and the previous animated film Don made which are both great called: The Small One (he made while still at Disney) and the other being Banjo the Woodpile Cat.

[@AirQuotes]

Don Bluth has already been on this channel so it makes sense they kept in touch with the rest of his team

[@MovieFan1912]

I had never even heard of Philo Barnhart until I saw this review, and I’m glad I did.

[@asarishepard8171]

i grew up fearing cats cause of this movie. i finally own a cat and she loves me, but for years i was terrified of them because of Dragon!

[@BigTuk]

How does nobody thirst for this character. Oh crirtic you sweet summer child. Seriously though Mrs. Brisby still is my go to reference for a strong female character DONE RIGHT.

[@jp3813]

No need to be gender-specific, it just lessens her impact. For male characters don't have to be like Bruce Lee to be badass.

[@cartooncritique6625]

I concur she's not some super-powered heroine, but as far as I'm concerned her bravery far exceeds any of theirs.

[@jp3813]

@@cartooncritique6625 Gotta give Marlin from Finding Nemo his due credit as well.

[@cartooncritique6625]

@@jp3813 Fair point. He goes through more or less the same character arc as Mrs Frisby.

[@Myuutsuu85]

@@jp3813 It makes sense in the way that people often complain that, well other people don't like female characters for being female, when in truth those people simply don't like badly writen characters.

[@itrasheditgood]

She’s actually an “alive” mom, which seems to be rare, let alone the main character in animation.

[@Trainfan1055Janathan]

When I was a kid, my family would tease me because my name is also Jonathan. Whenever she would say, "I wish Jonathan was here," they'd say something like, "why are you abandoning your wife? Can't you see she needs you?"

[@Canibar13]

Thanks for that short, life story. It was both funny and cute to read.😀 Reminds me of how my own mother likes to jokingly, tease me.😀😊

[@Canibar13]

@Malarie-Susan Gold I agree, that would have been a great reply. 🤣

[@brentparker7359]

Regarding Justin's "thirst"-inspiring manner, I'm baffled that they cast William H. Macy as him in the sequel. He's a great actor, but not really that type. In the first film, Mrs. Brisby is mourning her husband, is terrified for her son and JUSTIN IS A DIFFERENT SPECIES and she still has the hots for him! :D

[@andrecarpenter2432]

The concept of a monster that tells interesting stories to eat people is quite great

[@the_clark_side8466]

Give them the theme of bedtime stories and it gets better. The monster lulls you to sleep and eats you while you're helpless.

[@MforMovesets]

Ehh Doug just watched too much Love, Death & Robots.

[@harrybechtle4333]

I mean, he is a fairy

[@chrisleitzel2659]

I need to make this a D&D monster

[@SomeYouTubeTraveler]

@@chrisleitzel2659 That was my exact thought! Would make a _fantastic_ archfey to seek out in the Feywild. What story would be so great, so important, that you'd be willing to let it be the last story you ever hear? "Legend tells of a mysterious creature, who can tell you any story you wish, whether true or fantastical. No story is hidden from him, even things unrecorded or unseen by eyes mortal or divine. He can tell the story of your birth, of your ancestors, of any point in history you can imagine. He can tell you of when the moon was formed, or recount the unwritten books dreamed of by authors long passed away. He can answer the burning questions that have driven mortals to countless wars and atrocities... but his price is unnegotiable. Craving for craving, hunger for hunger... just as the listener devours his knowledge, he then devours the listener. All who hear his tales are doomed to perish, unable to share their newfound knowledge with anyone, and must die content with finally knowing the one thing which they deemed worth trading everything to know..." Now imagine the Party or a desperate PC learns of this fabled creature, then dedicates their life to finding it, vowing somehow to escape... for the knowledge of the story they seek is the only thing that can save the ones they love... 'Scuse me, imma go write a new D&D campaign... XD

[@ryangreen6255]

That last story is freaking huge in heart. I would feel like a trillion bucks to be recognized by Julie Andrews.

[@thomasobrien1841]

Philo’s story about meeting Julie Andrews at the end was so wholesome

[@Jarod-vg9wq]

3:05 that intro was creppy, magical and unique just like a don bluth film.

[@AMTheOcarinaPlayer]

Bloody heck!! He’s finally reviewing his favourite movie!! Fun historical fact is that despite people thinking it’s degrading that Mrs Brisby is never mentioned by first name, in olden days that was considered the HEIGHT of respect to address a woman only by her last name. To address a woman by her first name (single or married) was only to be used with intimate friends/family and anyone outside of that was considered being very disrespectful to her. So everyone referring to her by her husbands name is their showing of respect to her. “The mouse the great Jonathan Brisby chose as his wife, what an honour to meet you. 🙇‍♀️”

[@IrvGottiRumRunner]

The NIMH Fandom has named Mrs. Brisby, Elizabeth Brisby, in honor of Elizabeth Hartman.

[@AMTheOcarinaPlayer]

@@IrvGottiRumRunner .... unofficial but kinda sweet... not a fan that it can be abbreviated to Lizzy... 🤷‍♀️ I’d still refer to her as Mrs Brisby unless she permitted me to address her informally/friendly. 👍 (back then, it was and still should be basic customary manners.)

[@IrvGottiRumRunner]

@@AMTheOcarinaPlayer Oh. Absolutely. Addressing her as Mrs. Jonathan Brisby was definitely Classy Old School Manners. As for her first name being Elizabeth, Don Bluth and Goldman had given the fanon first name their blessing.

[@AMTheOcarinaPlayer]

@@IrvGottiRumRunner okay, then that I will agree. I remember this, I think animators course or just an interview with Bleuth and he said NONE of the billions of sequels were done with his consent or consultation. Granted I still think American tale 2 and 3 were pretty good. Certainly still good at covering the horrible worker exploitation of the late 19th century. “Back in Russia I taught music and sold a few violins, two jobs was enough!.... sigh, but here in America, here you need 3...” -Papa Mouskowitz, treasure of manhattan island.

[@MadNumForce]

Mrs. Brisby is the one single strongest female character ever, period, for she's the weakest, meekest, most inconspicuous person, yet out of sheer selfless love for her child she accomplishes the impossible. She proves real strength lays in the heart. I'm really tearing up thinking about that little mice mom whose adventure is an absolute lesson in courage.

[@Aelkassed]

This is one of the rare cases where I liked the movie more than the book. There was a real sense of urgency for Mrs. Brisby to protect her family, which was missing from the book. That, and I love the fantasy elements they added.

[@MichaelAarons1701]

I would actually argue it would have been slightly better had, after “Flying Dreams-Lullaby”, Mrs. Brisby had actually been shown having a dream back to a time when Jonathan was still alive to perhaps show the dynamic between the 2 and also set up A) what/who she lost, B) get a much better sense of what she’s having to become as of the loss of him, and C) let the man whom everyone gushes about actually have a moment to sorta speak for himself as the man everyone only talks about posthumously. Otherwise it’s no different than her not having a name and just being nothing more than “Mrs. HisLastName”. Incidentally, in the book, Mrs. Frisby is really nothing more than a means to tell someone else’s story as she’s barely a narrative plot beyond Exposition Monkey as Nicodemus goes full autobiography on her about everyone’s experiences at NIMH making her the Audience Proxy for us to be told this tale. Furthermore, _Frisby_ had to wait on Justin to actually come back to get her out of the cage while _Brisby_ just does for herself better giving perspective on just how great the film version is over the source. My personal head-canon is that the eyes reflect the brilliant light of divine knowledge as both characters are older and therefore have more profound wisdom to know. It also kinda ties in with the religious parallels mentioned what with the comparison to The Light mentioned in _Poltergeist_ where the answer to all of your questions would be answered. (Coincidentally another 1982 film scored by Jerry Goldsmith.)

[@brunoais]

We need to consider this is a movie made for 1980's knowledge people and 1980's mentality. Those things are sth we can think of now but I think it probably would be too much then...

[@MichaelAarons1701]

So you’re saying: too cerebral?

[@brunoais]

@@MichaelAarons1701 No. I mean that there's less worldwide communication, so less works to base on and learn from. Also different culture knowledge. It's not too intelectual. Just not available to the mind of that time...

[@MichaelAarons1701]

I wouldn’t really say I claimed she was “insignificant”, only that she’s more of a borderline McGuffin -without her, the rats’ story couldn’t be told; she does other things like still drugging Dragon and overhearing the farmer’s phone call with NIMH for instance. But the book really comes down to: someone has a problem, goes and finds some person(s) who are amazing, then it stops for a big long while to be about how they got amazing, before finally coming back to the now and letting them show off how amazing they are. And do recall nothing particularly extreme happening during the move since there was no sabotage and thus Nicodemus lives to be in the sequel. Since the film stays in the now glossing over SO much of the middle parts of the book and gives Brisby so much agency, it becomes a much different story where only the same events (mostly) happen but with a much different character. I said in my initial post it would have been nice to get some flashback to her before she became a widow so we could see a transformation between statuses Side note: my only experience with the book was having our 5th grade teacher read it to us and then _years_ later listening to the *abridged* audiobook here on KZbin. So I’m a little fuzzy on all the particular differences but I seem to recall Frisby being rather passive in how she got swept up in each progression of the story.

[@MichaelAarons1701]

I don’t follow your comment. Did you mean this for another person because I’m not getting what exactly you’re referencing as part of what appear a rebuttal? My only comments about Jonathan were that it would have been nice to show him actually interacting with his wife (and likely kids) so that the audience can see how or if his death caused her to have to become someone or something else. Did she dote on his as head of the household? Did they have mutual chemistry as strong parents? Or was she the stronger woman behind every great man? We do get a little context clue when she starts crying wishing he were here after her clunky attempt to stop the plow that Auntie Shrew bailed her out on but one could easily spin it that she was just overwhelmed after the experience not simpering because of a lack of confidence. And I also would like to see him have a scene so we can see just what kind of guy he was since maybe, if he’s shown to be likeable, greater empathy can be had with her because we through her eyes the scale of what was lost and know better just how much it hurts to lose him.

[@undead890]

I love hearing all the stories Philo has about this movie. It's always well appreciated when you can get someone who has worked on the movies to give us a behind the scenes into the thought process for these movies. On an unrelated note, has anyone seen my pinky finger?

[@moon7shinev150]

Honestly Mrs.Brisby and Justin should have totally gotten together. I remember these two were one of my first ships along with Queen Clarion and Lord Milori from Tinkerbell and Dark Heart and Christy from Care Bears 2. I always wondered why Mrs.Brisby and her family didn’t go with the rats to Thorn Valley

[@kagehikari4281]

Probably one of my earliest beloved childhood movies next to the last unicorn. Red the book countless times growing up too. Both the story and movie are different enough to each give a great unique experience apart from the other I will always treasure equally. Much thanks to the author, Bluth and his amazing team and the actors for both of these gifts. Also a big thanks and appreciation to Philo for sitting down sharing thoes stories, what a treat! edit: Should ad this is probably my most fave Don Bluth film

[@youseineko]

Nice review, and I definitely loved the trivia and little stories along the way. The one about changing “Frisby” to “Brisby” in the Owl scene amazed me the most. It always sounded so natural! I’m a little disappointed you didn’t point out more of the differences between the book and the movie. You mentioned there was no magic in the book, but that wasn’t all. For example, Mr. Ages’s personality was changed, and Jenner wasn’t a villain. But Nicodemus was the most different. If I remember correctly, he was much younger in the book, and he didn’t die. It’s always fascinated me that Secret of NIMH is technically a bad adaptation, but it’s more beloved than the book. Just goes to show an adaptation doesn’t have to be 100 percent faithful to the original. It just has to be good.

[@ShinySephiroth1]

Oh wow! I didn't know that! I just posted a comment stating that I watched this in my 20s for the first time and what made me not like the film was what felt like a random insertion of magic. It didn't fit the story for me and came out of nowhere, kinda ruining the overall story for me. I remember feeling there were other inconsistencies but don't recall them now... your comment makes me think I picked up on the story changes from the source material and that might be what turned me off. I didn't even know it was based on a book! This is starting to make a lot more sense to me now.

[@ShinySephiroth1]

BTW, at 4:44 he talks about how there was no magic in the book

[@IrvGottiRumRunner]

What makes The Secret of NIMH not just a classic, but also Masterpiece is that Don Bluth took a children’s book and a supporting character (Mrs Frisby) and adapted it into a Dark Action Fantasy Epic with an Amazing lead, Mrs. Brisby. There’s So Much world building potential that Should have been followed through on a deserved sequel, but MGM has proven to be an abysmal caretaker; they basically sabotaged TSON’s release on a level that wouldn’t be surpassed until Justice League Snyder Cut. MGM should just stick to casinos.

[@TwistedChungus]

@@IrvGottiRumRunner If it makes you feel better [or worse, really], it *did* get a sequel. It wasn't the one it deserved, but it was in fact a sequel.

[@AndrevusWhitetail]

Brisby embodies the true meaning of courage. Courage isn't the lack of fear, but having the strength to do what must be done in spite of fear.

[@georgeeastwood6930]

She’s definitely a better role model for women & despite being a mouse, she ironically acted more human than Mulan from the 2020 remake.

[@cdogthehedgehog6923]

The plot to Courage the Cowardly Dog.

[@snowcat8971]

I was 11 when this film came out, so it had a pretty big impact on me and my love for animated films (which I still love to this day). It's an intense and somewhat scary movie, but the payoff at the end was amazing. It is really sad that Elizabeth Hartman killed herself 5 years later after suffering from depression for a long time. She did such a terrific job voice Mrs. Brisby.

[@springchickena1]

feelings & spirits never die

[@TwistedChungus]

It's hardly the biggest or the only tragedy to occur with a major VA associated with a Don Bluth movie or movies. If you want *real* depression? Look up Judith Barsi [Anne-Marie in All Dogs Go To Heaven, and Ducky in the first The Land Before Time].

[@TheMoonshadowMysteryChannel]

I'm honestly impressed you got him to appear on your channel, he seems like he's having a legitimate blast with you and your team.

[@Gabriel-nz2bj]

NIMH is gorgeous, but its first act is absolutely perfect. It starts off by telling us that Mr. Brisby has just died and Nicodemus is unsure about how Mrs. Brisby would react (we don't see her reaction, but we assume it was really painful) Then we learn that Timmy is sick, and we are shown all the dangers the still grieving Mrs. Brisby has to face in order to give hum medicine. To make things even worse, we are told that she's on the verge of being evicted, and her children's behavior do not help at all in negotiating an extended deadline. Little by little, we get aware of how tough is her situation, how much must be going on in her head, and yet we can't help admiring how serenely and resolutely Mrs. Brisby faces her Homeric challenges. The final scene of Act I should have her exploding on tears, screaming and throwing it all up. That's what an average person would do in her situation. But instead, we get the sweetest scene of a mother feeding her child, giving him the remedy. To make it more remarkable, the heroic theme played in the opening credits is played again, now in the form of a lullaby. As if to say that her motherhood, her love for that feeble cot-case child, is the actual source of her strength. I get all teary just by thinking of it. Enfin, Don Bluth is genius, NIMH is the best Mother's Day movie I know, and "Flying Dreams" is perhaps my favorite use of soft music in motion picture ("Servant du Feu" in Sound of the Sky is a close second)

[@erainmartinez8175]

How true and very epic is it not? 13:16

[@ComicalRealm]

To this day, I still like to think that this movie and "the pinky and the brain" take place in the same universe.

[@anarchoreign3470]

To take over the world, they'll butt-rape the sequel

[@shadowhauntjoker8501]

same.

[@zachwells5049]

You telling me they didn’t heretic

[@louisduarte8763]

Like ACME LABS saw what NIMH did to their rats and thought, "We can do better than that!"

[@TheAllSeeingEye2468]

Would explain a lot but that place was called "national institution of mental health" and the other was called " American cerebral medical of education" Yeah tried to come up clever but failed. If anyone has anything better let me know

[@RageCreati0n]

Mrs. Brixby is a perfect example of a well written female character. Just like critic said she’s not the strongest, smartest or even the bravest. It’s her maternal love for her children that drives her through to the end. She has pronounced weakness and challenges to overcome. And she addresses them adequately. Unlike modern Mary Sue women who are handed everything up to and including plot armor on a silver platter for no other reason than “the Message”

[@ChaosRocket]

Most male heroes are strong and brave from the start and have serious plot armor, so why would you expect most female characters to be any different?

[@TSmeowMeow]

@@ARCtheCartoonMaster Because they're called Mary Sue's regardless. The issue is that a certain demographic of men don't want women to be shown as strong or as warriors. It's a rather significant part of their propaganda that women not be allowed to surpass men.

[@gameragodzilla]

@@ChaosRocket Not really. Most well loved male heroes still lose and get their ass kicked a lot, and have to grow and improve. See Luke Skywalker. Hell, even Rambo had to deal with getting abused by the cops while suppressing his violent nature in First Blood, and gets abandoned by his superiors, tortured, and have to get helped by his (female) ally to escape in First Blood Part 2.

[@Dravianpn02]

​@@TSmeowMeownot true and a huge misrepresentation of what people are upset about. Not once have I seen any single thread, comment, interview, etc about anyone saying it's from THAT perspective. Asinine really lol

[@TSmeowMeow]

@@Dravianpn02 congrats that you don't pay attention to a large portion of the Internet?

[@PhantoMace2012]

That Julie Andrews “little Philo” story was too wholesome

[@riseofthesugars5312]

The great thing is it starts out just being "serviceable" and gets better and better as you keep watching it. Like a lot of other fantasy epics, the plot is kinda bare bones but gets more interesting as you learn about the characters and the lore. Overall, a great movie. Not one of my favorites, but I get it if it is one of yours.

[@thing1thing2themediamaniac43]

What is one of your favorite movies?

[@riseofthesugars5312]

I’ll give you a different answer depending on whatever genre we’re talking about. In terms of animation, some of my go-to’s are Prince of Egypt, Coraline, How to Train Your Dragon, Spiderverse, Lion King, Wall-e and Princess Mononoke. I also have a soft spot for Emperor’s New Groove, Treasure Planet, Megamind and Surf’s Up.

[@thing1thing2themediamaniac43]

@@riseofthesugars5312 All those are GREAT MOVIES

[@Dravianpn02]

​@@riseofthesugars5312you seen Akira?

[@Umbreona]

Mrs. Brisby IS a REAL strong female character. I love her and wish far more characters could be like her.

[@jp3813]

No need to have the word "female" there. Because trying to be like Bruce Lee isn't the only way for male characters to be strong.

[@TheOneMarty]

One of many reasons why I'm still wishing for a big budget Discworld adaptation. His world may have been the epitome of silly but by god could Pratchett write humane characters, female or otherwise.

[@UnprofessionalProfessor]

@@jp3813 "No need?" Must be cozy under that rock.

[@jp3813]

@@UnprofessionalProfessor Ditto.

[@UnprofessionalProfessor]

@@jp3813 Doesn't work coming from you, because you're actually ignorant of the subject at hand.

[@mandyb2245]

The glowing eyes of the Great Owl and Nicodemus unsettled me as a child, as did the sword fight between Justin and Jenner. The way that one rat threw the knife into Jenner's back kinda freaked me out too. For me, it didn't feel like a kids' movie at the time. I love the movie now, though!

[@riakun]

Doug: How has no one thirsted for Justin?? Dude, I was stoked when my first boyfriend shared his name. Trust me, many of my friends and I absolutely loved Justin growing up.

[@mikigirl18]

I'm glad you mentioned about Justin. When I was a kid, he was my favorite character. Still is, but I was impressed with how involved he was with the escape from NIMH in the book.

[@chancewrightva]

It's always cool when we have special guest Stars on the reviews.

[@louisduarte8763]

Yeah, when was the last time that happened? Was it the two creators of X-Men: The Animated Series promoting a book they wrote, before X-Month?

[@koneheadcokehead4981]

Yeah I wish we had more guest stars it brings a more interesting perspective that maybe we wouldn’t have gotten from another review

[@genevieva_b]

i just saw it the other day for the first time and loved it. those backgrounds blew my mind, which i wasn't expecting from this kind of animation right after rewatching "Song of the Sea". also, i've recently realised i'm really drawn to characters like Mrs. Brisby, finding themselves in over their heads, but discovering a hidden capability out of sheer necessity. like Joyce from Stranger Things, maybe even Sarah Connor, who starts out pretty similar, even though eventually gains far more strength. and yeah, i definitely wouldn't mind a "widow finding new love" plotline for Mrs. Brisby and Justin.

[@marganaapsinthia]

I saw this in cinema when it first came out and it immediately became my favourite animated film. Even today it's one of my top favourite films of all time, regardless of the medium. And I was in love with Justin - not like, I want to be with a rat, but in the sense that this is a great man to be anything with: a friend, a child, a wife, a son... He's compassionate, reasonable, respectful, he recognises wisdom and foolishness when he sees them and knows what to side with - and on top of that he's light-hearted and playful whenever the situation doesn't require him to be otherwise. And still the situation doesn't rule him, he rules the situation - not by asserting his own will, but by finding the balance between the most urgent need, what's best for everyone and the smartest way to go about it. He's a role-model. Still love the character to bits.

[@jamesmoyner7499]

One of my all time favorite films not just regarding animation. The house raising scene is one of the best scenes in animation. I adore this film and Doug if you have the chance pick up the Intrada Records full score soundtrack for the film.

[@chasehedges6775]

Indeed. It’s absolutely beautiful

[@CrazyAlienLady051]

Isn’t there a second one where Timmy is the main character? I always wanted to see it.

[@jamesmoyner7499]

@@CrazyAlienLady051 That is the direct to video sequel Doug was referring to throughout the review. I have only seen his review he did of the film years ago and even that was showing too much.

[@orangeslash1667]

@@chasehedges6775 Fun Fact: Don only given 30 months to make the film and only have a budget of 7 million.

[@koneheadcokehead4981]

It’s amazing how this film came out almost 40 years and the animation still looks so impressive

[@chasehedges6775]

It’s a beautiful painting that still lasts

[@neoanimefreak_7606]

That's because back then, people actually put in effort.

[@chasehedges6775]

@@neoanimefreak_7606 💯💯

[@JohnClark-tt2bl]

The amount of skill it took for some of those backgrounds alone is amazing, it's a lost art.

[@coolnerdlll6053]

It doesn't look as good as movies today, but for the time it's incredible, just like pretty much anything from before 1998.

[@invadermarkb]

The Secret of Nimh will ALWAYS be my favorite animated movie, everything about it is fantastic and I never get tired of watching it, that's really cool Philo did work on both Secret of Nimh and countless other animated movies we all grew up with.

[@TheNN]

Something about the Great Owl not spoken about in this review is that John Carradine, who was already suffering terribly from rheumatoid arthritis, inspired a lot of the Great Owl's movements. That creaking, cracking way he moves, and the slow, stilted walk he has was directly based on how Carradine had to move in order to get around because he was in so much pain. Also he was often times quite drunk when on the set, and would usually only do one take (which honestly considering how GOOD he was as the Great Owl, I could only imagine how much of a mind blowing performance it would've been had his health been better).

[@spyrotamer]

Hands down, the scene where she raises the house has to be one of my all time favorite moments in animation. The music, the setting, the buildup... all of it just goes together perfectly. 🥰 Side note, was I the only one who thought Justin and Mrs. Brisby would've made a cute couple as a kid (or, shoot, even now)? I can't be the only one... 🤔

[@IrvGottiRumRunner]

No. EVERYONE that saw this film in the summer of ‘82 as a kid wanted them as a couple based on that first meet; their chemistry was unmistakable. As grown ups, we realize Elizabeth Brisby giving Justin the Stone (that she stated she would treasure always) was the big “I love you” moment. Then, one of the animators in that film released a sketch called “The Kiss” which broke the Internet in the late 90’s early 2000. Despite Don Bluth’s insistence otherwise, artists on social media and art sites still “ship” them. To paraphrase Film Courage, great characters will take your story places you may not have intended.

[@Canibar13]

I know I certainly saw them as a thing as well, when I was young.😀

[@brentparker7359]

It always struck me funny how Justin tells Mrs. Brisby to leave her cape because it might get snagged on something, so then when the humans catch her, you don't have them saying, "OH MY GOD, WHY IS THIS MOUSE WEARING A TINY CAPE!"

[@SaturdayCircus]

Honestly I loved this movie so much as a kid if I had ever shook hands with anyone who even was in the presence of this movies creation I would never wash my hands again, thank you Phil for being a part of this masterpiece!

[@crystalmarshall7924]

One of my favorite movies of all time! Also, my thoughts on why she volunteered to drug the cat was because they needed him to be asleep to move the house. She felt the rats where doing so much for her, that she needed to help in some way. Just my 2 cents.

[@coolnerdlll6053]

I always wondered why he did the second one for Sequel Month without having reviewed this. The prophecy has been fulfilled.

[@iamtriston666]

Well you have to remember. At that time he focused on reviewing bad movies mostly.

[@koneheadcokehead4981]

See critics can change

[@katiestaines1]

Listening to Philo and his stories was so lovely, really warms the heart to still hear the love and passion for his craft and team.

[@mechazoic]

I remember, as a kid, we read "Mrs Frisby and the Rats of Nimh" in English Literature class and the teacher showed us this movie so that we could compare the adaptions. It surprised me how much had been changed, such as Jeremy being a far less comical character in the book, Jenner not being the villain and the addition of the magical elements. It opened my eyes to how a story gets adapted when translating to a different medium.

[@JeffreyDeCristofaro]

This is my second favorite Don Bluth film, just behind THE LAND BEFORE TIME! And to think it came out during what many hardcore cinephiles regard as the greatest year in cinema - what a DEBUT! Also, Jerry Goldsmith did AWESOME music for FIRST BLOOD and POLTERGEIST the same year!

[@loganwynn2337]

so fun fact: my mom has extreme musophobia (the fear of rodents); particularly towards rats and mice. It's to the point that she absolutely cannot watch even animated movies featuring them (i.e. Encanto, idr if Cinderella is included). However, Secret of NIMH and American Tale are the only two we know of where she has absolutely no fear or apprehension towards the mice, & not even she knows why that is! (The best I can guess is that it's probably because they don't act like real mice most of the time, so it might not trigger her phobia, whereas in Encanto, the rats all act exactly like rats, albeit cartoonishly exaggerated) Edit: so, I asked my mom, and here are the mouse movies she can watch (she actually even loves them!) Secret of NIMH Great Mouse Detective Cinderella American Tale any others, like Ratatouille, she can't stand

[@marieroberts5458]

I guess Ratatouille was not a favorite at your home. I'm sorry for her, because that's one heck of a movie.

[@tastethepainbow]

How does she feel about Jerry?

[@cameronclophus7998]

What about The Great Mouse Detective?

[@dynamicsketch]

I can assume that the mice and rats are relatable as they act human. Mrs. Brisbee is a mother first.

[@koneheadcokehead4981]

To quote the late great Norm Macdonald and something I’m sure Jeremy might be thinking about is “In math, you could get 100 percent. It was very fair. That's what I liked about math. You could figure it out, and the teacher couldn't have a stupid opinion about it.”

[@Zodia195]

Flying Dreams never ceases to make me cry, especially a rendition of it by someone I know online. But yeah while I am not a huge fan of Don Bluth's 80s movies, this is the exception of the rule. When I think of my fav fictional mothers, Mrs. Brisby is up there with the best, if not the best.

[@sarahswanson4637]

This movie was a fundamental part of my childhood, so I'm always happy to see it being discussed. All the behind-the-scenes stories were wonderful to hear too, love getting more insight into how great movies are made! Also, I absolutely had a crush on Justin as a kid. Not gonna lie, still kinda into him.

[@theanimeunderworld8338]

Ah dark 80s movies, better than most kid movies today

[@AsylumEscapade]

Definitely

[@ZackaryBiagi]

7:58 funny how you were talking about the live action mulan, when I was thinking the original was just like Mrs brisby. A character with many flaws and not many skills to help her out, powering through to become stronger and more wise so that they can overcome future obstacles while mainly being motivated for the Love of her family.

[@the_UF365]

Nice job setting the mood of the film you're discussing by having a warm person be a cannibal and having the Critic not be phased by it. Honestly, this film made me feel the same way after a few watches; I felt numb to getting scared.

[@emmasmith2380]

Mother's are the most terrifying beings when protecting their family

[@brentparker7359]

I think the reason Mrs. Brisby had to drug Dragon is that she's the only one who could fit through the hole in the floor. Jonathan is dead, Mr. Ages is injured and that leaves her as the only mouse who could do it. It's still very brave of her.

[@jennwolfe5519]

One of my absolute favorites! Fond memories of reading AND watching with my dad. Thank you for sharing this with me Philo ❤️

[@swanpride]

Especially considering that this is how her husband died...he most likely took the task of drugging Dragon multiple times, but at one point he still got caught. And yet she goes.

[@shainewhite2781]

Jerry Goldsmith's score is brilliant and epic and mesmerizing and fantastic. Its too bad it was his only film he did music for Don Bluth, while Bluth hired James Horner to do music for An American Tail, The Land Before Time and An American Tail 2.

[@coolnerdlll6053]

RIP to both of them.

[@olleselin]

RIP

[@shainewhite2781]

@@olleselin Yes, RIP, Jerry Goldsmith. He is truly a legend.

[@gregthehedgehog0956]

Don wasn't involved with American Tail 2

[@LucyLioness100]

Jerry Goldsmith never made a bad score even if a movie was bad. The man made one of his horror’s creepiest scores (his sole Oscar win) & some truly triumphant pieces like “Star Trek: the Motion Picture” or his work with Joe Dante. And James Horner’s credentials are too difficult to sum up also. He was wonderful

[@jbrisby]

One thing that really hit me as a kid was how Mrs. Brisby cut herself escaping from the cage. I'd never seen an animated character just casually injured like that. Made her seem real, and her situation as well.

[@jacobcox4565]

I think the reason why The Great Owl and Nicodemus have similar facial hair and glowing eyes is because those traits are supposed to show how old and wise they are. Both have glowing eyes and a long facial hair because they are the oldest and wisest characters in the story. I don't think there's any other connection.

[@serenitythesiren5031]

I heard once that it was sort of meant to be a hint that that the two were the same being? I mean, Nicodemus did say he already knew her problem, so I don't know.

[@nuclearcatbaby1131]

Actually I think the Dumbledore rat just made a Horcrux.

[@rastaoneeye]

This was perfection of a trip down memory lane. I’m in my 40s and this is still one of my favorite movies. It was what got me into art. Again thanks for the trip. Philo Barnhart is an absolute Legend. Everyone who worked on this movie masterpiece, are Legendary.

[@BugsyFoga]

Time for another segment of Doug goes crazy for the secret of nimh.

[@brandonespinoza9279]

I saw this just this very afternoon on KZbin (for free) and I STILL loved this very film, ever since I was a kid in the 90s on VHS at the time, as I will cherish it as one of my favorite old-school films of all time!