Inspired by the classic novel The Borrowers by Mary Norton comes The Secret World of Arrietty, a beautiful Japanese animated film about an unlikely friendship. Kidzworld has the movie review!
The Borrowers
Arrietty, an adventurous 14-year-old borrower, lives with her parents under the floorboards of a human family’s home. During the night, they borrow things from the house that they need to stay alive, such as sugar and tissues and soap - things that the humans wouldn’t miss. But there is one rule that borrowers must never break in order to keep their identity a secret: they must never let a human see them.
The First Borrowing
On the night of her first borrowing, Arrietty and her father sneak into the guest bedroom where Sean, the teenage nephew of the homeowner, is sleeping. While Arrietty tries to collect a sheet of tissue, he opens his eyes and spots her. Even though the boy promises not the hurt her, she and her father sneak out, leaving their prizes for the night behind.
An Unlikely Bond
In the days that follow, Sean pursues a friendship with Arrietty, who eventually lets her guard down when he saves her from a hungry crow. She realizes that maybe all humans aren’t dangerous. In spite of Sean’s genuine intentions, Arrietty’s parents insist that they move to a new residence. And it’s a good thing they do. Hara, the housekeeper, has discovered their existence, and she’s more than happy to hand them over to the exterminators.
The Bottom Line
Created using Japanese animation, The Secret World of Arrietty tells the tender story of a sick teenager and the 4-inch tall girl who inspired him to survive. It doesn’t matter whether you see this film in theatres or not; it would be wonderful either way. But if you like animated movies, we urge you to see it.
Have Your Say
Have you read The Borrowers by Mary Norton? Tell us in our comment section below!
The Secret World of Arrietty Movie Rating:
