Detailed Summary
Introduction to the Borrowers
“The Secret World of Arrietty,” also known as “Arrietty the Borrower,” introduces us to a family of tiny people called Borrowers. They live secretly in human homes and “borrow” items they need to survive. The story centers on a young Borrower named Arrietty.
Arrietty’s First Borrowing Mission
Arrietty (voiced by Bridgit Mendler in the English version) is excited about her first borrowing mission with her father, Pod (voiced by Will Arnett). They sneak into the house above their home to collect supplies. During this mission, Arrietty is spotted by a young human boy named Sho (voiced by David Henrie), which breaks the Borrowers’ most important rule: never be seen by humans.
The Growing Friendship
Despite the danger, Sho and Arrietty form a secret friendship. Sho is fascinated by the Borrowers and wants to help them, while Arrietty is curious about the human world. This friendship puts Arrietty’s family at risk, as humans discovering Borrowers usually leads to trouble.
Haru’s Discovery and the Borrowers’ Escape
Haru (voiced by Carol Burnett), the housekeeper, becomes suspicious and eventually discovers the Borrowers’ home. She captures Arrietty’s mother, Homily (voiced by Amy Poehler), prompting Arrietty and Sho to plan a daring rescue. With Sho’s help, they manage to free Homily.
A Bittersweet Farewell
Realizing they can no longer stay in their home, Arrietty’s family decides to leave and find a new place to live. Arrietty and Sho share a heartfelt goodbye, acknowledging that their worlds are too different but appreciating the friendship they formed.
Movie Ending
The film concludes with Arrietty and her family leaving their home to find a safer place to live, while Sho undergoes surgery with renewed hope and strength, inspired by his friendship with Arrietty. The ending is bittersweet, highlighting the fleeting yet impactful connection between the two characters.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “The Secret World of Arrietty” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
This film is an animated fantasy adventure, with elements of drama and family-friendly storytelling, produced by Studio Ghibli.
Cast
- Bridgit Mendler as Arrietty (English version)
- David Henrie as Sho (English version)
- Will Arnett as Pod (English version)
- Amy Poehler as Homily (English version)
- Carol Burnett as Haru (English version)
- Saoirse Ronan as Arrietty (UK version)
- Tom Holland as Sho (UK version)
Film Music and Composer
Cécile Corbel composed the film’s music, creating a beautiful, Celtic-inspired soundtrack that enhances the whimsical and emotional tone of the story.
Filming Locations
As an animated film, “The Secret World of Arrietty” doesn’t have physical filming locations. Instead, it draws inspiration from the lush, natural surroundings typical of Studio Ghibli films, depicting a detailed and vibrant world.
Awards and Nominations
- Japanese Academy Prize: Nominated for Animation of the Year.
- Annie Awards: Nominated for Best Animated Feature.
- Tokyo Anime Award: Won Animation of the Year.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The film is directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, marking his directorial debut with Studio Ghibli.
- Cécile Corbel, the composer, sent her album to Studio Ghibli, leading to her involvement in the film’s soundtrack.
- The animation meticulously captures the perspective of the Borrowers, emphasizing their small size and the vastness of the human world.
Inspirations and References
- Source Material: The film is based on Mary Norton’s 1952 novel “The Borrowers,” which tells the story of tiny people living secretly among humans.
- Studio Ghibli Style: The film reflects the studio’s signature style of lush animation, attention to detail, and deep emotional storytelling.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no known alternate endings or significant deleted scenes for this film. The narrative follows a concise and faithful adaptation of the source material.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- Faithful Adaptation: The film remains true to the spirit and plot of Mary Norton’s novel, though it is set in modern Japan instead of England.
- Character Development: Some characters and plot points are slightly altered or expanded to fit the film’s narrative style.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Arrietty’s First Borrowing Mission: The suspenseful and visually stunning sequence where Arrietty explores the human house.
- The Rescue of Homily: The daring and emotional scene where Arrietty and Sho rescue Homily from Haru.
- The Farewell: The touching final goodbye between Arrietty and Sho.
Iconic Quotes
- “Sometimes you have to fight for the things that are worth fighting for.” – Sho
- “Our lives are in your hands. Please, help us.” – Arrietty
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Studio Ghibli Cameos: Look for references to other Studio Ghibli films in the background details.
- Attention to Detail: The Borrowers’ home and tools are made from repurposed human objects, showcasing the creativity of the animators.
Trivia
- The film is known as “The Borrower Arrietty” in Japan.
- Hiromasa Yonebayashi is the youngest director of a Studio Ghibli film.
- The film grossed over $145 million worldwide, making it one of Studio Ghibli’s successful releases.
Why Watch?
“The Secret World of Arrietty” captivates audiences with its beautiful animation, combining fantasy, adventure, and heartfelt storytelling. It explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the hidden worlds around us, making it suitable for viewers of all ages.
Director’s Other Movies
- When Marnie Was There (2014)
- Mary and the Witch’s Flower (2017, with Studio Ponoc)
- Modest Heroes (2018, with Studio Ponoc)
Recommended Films for Fans
- My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
- Spirited Away (2001)
- Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
- The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)
- Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
