The best movies transport you to a whole other universe and that is what The Secret World of Arrietty does quite literally.
Young, adventurous, and just bigger than a thimble-sized Arrietty is a borrower. Her world is constructed under the floorboards from objects that no one will miss. The rich detail of Arrietty’s home is stunning, even to the adult viewers. And her courage, growing skill, and desire for independence connects with young viewers.
Arrietty’s world is turned upside down when she forms an accidental friendship with a young, ill boy who is visiting a relative. What child hasn’t wished that there was a magical world just outside of our vision? That we could make a friend that no one else could see?
The quiet moments of the film really draw the viewer in. When there are scenes of danger and excitement, they stand in stark relief to the more serene world Arrietty’s parents try to create for their family. I prefer the gentle, flowering pace of this movie over the frenetic speed of most current children’s movies.
The Secret World of Arrietty is based on the acclaimed children’s book series “The Borrowers,” by Mary Norton, allowing for a nice reading tie-in.
The Secret World of Arrietty (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo) and The Secret World of Arrietty are available, now. Bonus includes a storyboard version of the film, original Japanese TV commercials, and more!
