Amid the usual and expected Oscar nominations was something of a surprise this year: The Secret of Kells, an Irish animated film that hasn't had UK distribution (even though it won the Audience award at the Edinburgh Film Festival) but which got itself the rather greater honour of a Best Animated Feature nod. And in recognition, US distributors Disney have put together a new trailer for the film.
The story follows Brendan (Evan McGuire) , a boy living in the Irish monastery of Kells with his uncle the Abbot (Brendan Gleeson). While Vikings threaten to attack, Brendan ventures out in search of ingredients needed to make inks and finish the illuminated Bible which became the monastery's greatest treasure (read all about it) and meets a strange girl in the forest. It's all directed by Tomm Moore.
The film's spectacularly good-looking and a real contrast to the other nominees - and not just because of the Irish accents. Still no UK release date, but check back later today and we'll have more for you on this little film that could.