“The Secret of Kells” Comes to the US

This just crossed my eye while I was looking for information about the Oscars, but an Irish animated movie about The Book of Kells is coming to the US.

The Secret of Kells is the story of a 9th century boy and his mission to help complete the Book of Kells — the ancient Celtic book that contains the majority of the four Gospels portrayed in stunning artwork and calligraphy.

Here’s the trailer:

Personally I’m not sure what to expect based on the trailer and description alone, although I’m certainly impressed with the animation. To do a movie about one of the great works of Western culture is no small feat, and it sounds like the movie is receiving quite a few accolades. It’ll only be in theaters for a week in the US (just long enough for it to qualify for an Oscar nomination) so start looking in mid-December for an art-house theater if you’re interested.

Incidentally, the animation category at the Oscars is going to be a lively one this year. While others have had one clear front-runner with a few others to round out the category (remember when Shark Tale was nominated?), this year we’ve had Up, Ponyo, Coraline, 9, and the upcoming Fantastic Mr. Fox and The Princess and the Frog all looking like contenders.