The Secret of NIMH 1982
Directed by
Don Bluth
Made by
United Artists
Plot Summary
Mrs. Brisby, a timid and introverted mouse widow, finds her family’s safety in jeopardy due to an unseasonably warm spell that compels Farmer Fitzgibbons to begin plowing his fields ahead of schedule. This rush threatens the fragile cinder block that she and her four children—Martin, Theresa, Cynthia, and young Timmy—call home. While a typical move to a safer location would be their usual course of action, Timmy’s serious illness from pneumonia complicates matters, keeping them rooted in their perilous situation.
In a moment of desperation, Mrs. Brisby seeks guidance from her wise neighbor, Auntie Shrew, who urges her to muster courage for the sake of her family and suggests she meet the enigmatic Great Owl. Despite her trepidation—after all, owls are natural predators to mice—Mrs. Brisby, with the help of a clumsy yet earnest crow named Jeremy, embarks on a daring journey to seek the owl’s counsel. Upon learning of her late husband, Jonathan Brisby, the owl shares a critical piece of advice: seek the help of the secretive Rats of NIMH, who reside within the rosebush next to the farmer’s house.
Upon reaching the rats, Mrs. Brisby discovers a complex society that draws upon electricity stolen from Fitzgibbons. She encounters Dr. Ages, her family’s doctor, who, astonished by her encounter with the Great Owl, acknowledges her formidable challenge. The rats’ leader, Nicodemus, reveals their history as lab animals transformed into intelligent beings after escaping the clutches of NIMH, and pledges to assist her, forever indebted to Jonathan for his past heroism.
However, lurking beneath this newfound alliance is Jenner, a power-hungry rat with nefarious intentions to usurp Nicodemus and sabotage their plans for a brighter future in Thorn Valley. As Mrs. Brisby courageously offers to deploy a plan to sedate Fitzgibbons’ ferocious cat, Dragon, circumstances turn dire when she becomes trapped and overhears a plot that puts her children in peril.
As the rats prepare to execute their daring operation, tensions reach a boiling point when Jenner’s treachery unfolds, leading to a tragic confrontation that leaves Nicodemus dead. Driven by a mother’s instinct to protect her children, Mrs. Brisby draws upon the amulet bestowed to her by Nicodemus to harness courage and empower herself. With unwavering determination, she manages to lift her home from impending doom at the last moment.
The dawn following these harrowing events brings renewed hope, as Timmy begins to recover and the now-abandoned rosebush gets scrutinized by NIMH. Jeremy returns, triumphant with strings to weave his future, only to find the Brisby home magically relocated and unsuspectingly adorned by nature, while love is unexpectedly waiting to unfold. As Mrs. Brisby’s children tend to her burned hands from the amulet’s power, a harmonious turn of events blossoms, as relationships begin anew with the arrival of Jeremy’s serendipitous companion.
Timeline
Timmy's Illness
Mrs. Brisby's son, Timmy, falls seriously ill with pneumonia. This dire situation puts immense pressure on the family, complicating their impending need to move to a safer home.
The Warm Spell Threat
An unexpected warm spell leads Farmer Fitzgibbons to plow his fields sooner than usual. This sudden action places Mrs. Brisby and her children's fragile home in grave danger of destruction.
Seeking Help from Auntie Shrew
In desperation, Mrs. Brisby consults her neighbor, Auntie Shrew, for advice on how to protect her family. Auntie encourages her to face her fears and seek the Great Owl for guidance.
Meeting Jeremy the Crow
With trepidation, Mrs. Brisby meets Jeremy, a clumsy but well-meaning crow who promises to help her. His assistance becomes crucial as she embarks on her journey to find the Great Owl.
Consulting the Great Owl
Mrs. Brisby meets the Great Owl, who reveals crucial information about her late husband. He advises her to seek the help of the Rats of NIMH, leading her to the thorny rosebush.
Encountering the Rats of NIMH
Upon finding the Rats of NIMH, Mrs. Brisby discovers a community powered by stolen electricity. This surprising society reveals their extraordinary past and their deep gratitude to her husband, Jonathan.
Dr. Ages' Surprise
Dr. Ages, the family doctor, recognizes Mrs. Brisby's determination and the significance of her meeting with the Great Owl. He confirms the formidable challenge she now faces.
The Threat of Jenner
Within the Rats of NIMH, Mrs. Brisby encounters Jenner, a rat with ambitions to take control from Nicodemus. His manipulative intentions threaten the unity and plans of the rats.
Planning to Sedate Dragon
Mrs. Brisby offers to sedate the farmer's vicious cat, Dragon, to secure her family's safety. However, during the operation, she becomes trapped, overhearing a malicious plot by Jenner.
Confrontation and Betrayal
As tensions rise, Jenner's treachery culminates in a heartbreaking confrontation that results in Nicodemus's death. The stakes escalate, putting Mrs. Brisby's mission and her children's safety in jeopardy.
Harnessing Courage
Fueled by a mother's love and the amulet given to her by Nicodemus, Mrs. Brisby summons her courage. With unwavering determination, she lifts her home just in time to save it from destruction.
The Dawn of New Hope
After the tumultuous night, a new day arrives with hope. Timmy starts to recover from his illness, and a sense of relief washes over the Brisby family as they assess their future.
NIMH's Attention
With the rats abandoned, NIMH begins to investigate the rosebush where the rats lived. This scrutiny indicates that the dangers faced may not be over yet for Mrs. Brisby and her family.
Jeremy's Return
As Jeremy returns with new resolve and ambitions, he discovers the Brisby home miraculously relocated. The natural surroundings beautify their new home, hinting at fresh beginnings.
New Beginnings
The Brisby children nurse their mother's wound from using the amulet, marking the beginning of healing. Meanwhile, Jeremy's arrival with a companion brings unexpected joy and a hint of new relationships.
Characters
Mrs. Brisby
Mrs. Brisby is a compassionate and brave mouse struggling to protect her family amidst dangerous circumstances. Despite her timidity, she displays unwavering determination and resourcefulness, seeking help from powerful allies. Her character evolution encapsulates a profound maternal instinct, emphasizing the protective nature of motherhood.
Nicodemus
Nicodemus is the wise and thoughtful leader of the Rats of NIMH, revered for his intelligence and connection to Mrs. Brisby’s late husband. His character provides guidance and hope for the future, as he embodies the ideals of courage and sacrifice. Nicodemus's tragic fate emphasizes the risks associated with leadership and the fight for survival.
Jenner
Jenner is the antagonistic rat whose ambition and betrayal pose a significant threat to both the rats and Mrs. Brisby's family. His desire for power drives the plot's conflict, showcasing the darker aspects of ambition and distrust within a community. Jenner's treachery becomes a catalyst for the struggle between good and evil.
Jeremy
Jeremy is a clumsy yet earnest crow who aids Mrs. Brisby on her quest. His character adds a light-hearted element to the story while providing comedic relief. His loyalty and support emphasize the theme of friendship, showcasing how even the most unlikely allies can play significant roles in overcoming obstacles.
Dr. Ages
Dr. Ages is the knowledgeable and caring doctor who looks after the Brisby family, offering his expertise in their time of need. His character illustrates the importance of medical knowledge and compassion in facing crises. He serves as a bridge between the human and animal worlds within the narrative.
Setting
Time period
The events of the movie take place in a timeless, pastoral setting where anthropomorphic animals coexist with humans. While it does not specify a particular time period, the story reflects themes of family, bravery, and the struggles against adversity that resonate across generations.
Location
NIMH, Thorn Valley, Farmer Fitzgibbons' Field
The story unfolds primarily around the Brisby home, nestled within a fragile cinder block on the edge of Farmer Fitzgibbons' fields. Nearby lies the secretive society of the Rats of NIMH, who inhabit a rosebush, utilizing their intelligence and electricity for their community. Thorn Valley, a promised land for the rats, symbolizes their hopes for a safe and prosperous future, contrasting the perils of their previous life.
Themes
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Courage
Courage is a prominent theme as Mrs. Brisby overcomes her fears for the safety of her children. Her journey to seek help from the Great Owl and the Rats of NIMH exemplifies the lengths a mother will go to protect her family. The story highlights the idea that true bravery often lies in facing one's fears and taking risks.
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Sacrifice
Sacrifice is evident as Mrs. Brisby risks her life and well-being to save Timmy and her family. The loss of Nicodemus and the treachery of Jenner underline the harsh realities of sacrifice in pursuit of a greater good. The balance between personal safety and familial duty creates emotional depth throughout the narrative.
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Community
The importance of community is reflected in the interactions between Mrs. Brisby and the Rats of NIMH. Their history of transformation and collective effort to escape danger showcases how collaboration and unity can provide strength in adversity. The story underlines that in difficult times, allies can emerge from unexpected places.
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