“The Secret of Kells” by director Tomm Moore has received an Academy Award Nomination for Best Animated Feature. All other nominees in the category were major studio releases from Fox, Disney/Pixar and Universal.
A viral, word-of-mouth Oscar® campaign eschewed all paid advertising and capitalized on audience passion to create a groundswell of support for “The Secret of Kells”. The nomination is a major accomplishment in a year with so many well-regarded commercial animated releases.
“The Secret of Kells” is also the only independently distributed film nominated for the animation industry Annie Awards Best Animated Feature and is winner of the Audience Award at the prestigious Annecy International Animation Festival.
Indie film distributor GKIDS President, Eric Beckman said,
“The grassroots support for The Secret of Kells has been phenomenal and continues to grow as audiences discover this amazing film. Everyone who has seen the movie has fallen in love. It is a breathtaking and unique piece of cinema that is as enjoyable for children as adults. We could not be happier for Tomm Moore and his creative team, and we owe an immense debt of gratitude to all the animators and fans who have spent the past three months spreading the word. This is your film!”
Director, Tomm Moore said,
“The phone started ringing Tuesday and we couldn’t believe it. It is such a surprise and honor. It is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of the entire crew and all our partners in the production, and most of all to the outpouring of support and encouragement we have received from fellow animators in the US.”
The Secret of Kells Images
“The Secret of Kells” synopsis: Magic, fantasy, and Celtic mythology come together in a riot of color and detail that dazzle the eyes, in this sweeping story about the power of imagination and faith to carry humanity through dark times. Young Brendan lives in the Abbey of Kells, a remote medieval outpost under siege from raiding barbarians. One day a celebrated master illuminator arrives from foreign lands carrying an ancient but unfinished book, brimming with secret wisdom and powers. To help complete the magical book, Brendan has to overcome his deepest fears on a dangerous quest that takes him into the enchanted forest, where mythical creatures hide. It is here that he meets the fairy Aisling, a mysterious young wolf-girl, who helps him along the way. But with the barbarians closing in, will Brendan’s determination and artistic vision illuminate the darkness and show that enlightenment is the best fortification against evil?
The Secret of Kells Promo Poster
“The Secret of Kells” is opening in Boston on March 19 and expanding April 2 to New York, Chicago, San Francisco and other markets. Distribution plans are fluid in light of the nomination.
Have you seen or heard anything about “The Secret of Kells”?
Will you see it?
“The Secret of Kells” Trailer:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FW8y7BIt6G8[/youtube]
“The Secret of Kells” Promo Trailer:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lw2_HZTuQBE[/youtube]
Brendan and the Secret of Kells really fits for an international release. I just seen it’s trailer early this morning and I really appreciate it’s story and lesson. :)