The Secret World of Arrietty is another lush, visually enthralling classic from Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli. Dubbed with great care by Disney and now on blu-ray with an amazing transfer, the movie springs to life. Based on the novel The Borrowers and written by the master Miyazaki, the look of the movie is quite stunning and full of vibrant life. The story also has a gentle message about respecting all creatures and beings regardless of their size or place in the food chain. Far from preachy, the movie is also just a fun adventure that bounces along from one great scene to the next.

The story is about a family of “borrowers” (tiny beings who borrow things that humans won’t miss) who live at a house in the country. One of the borrowers named Arrietty is befriended by a boy named Shawn and they get swept up in adventure and friendship. The extras included a standard DVD, a few music videos, and some storyboards. The extras are a bit on the slim side but it’s the feature that matters here.

The Secret of Arrietty has a jaw-droppingly perfect transfer to blu-ray and the animation has a natural look of watercolers. The story is simple and profound and The Secret World of Arrietty is a must-see of children and adults of all ages. It comes highly recommended.

Blu-ray Grade: A-

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