The Secret of NIMH 2: Timmy to the Rescue

The movie, The Secret of NIMH 2: Timmy to the Rescue, is an animated direct-to-video sequel to the highly acclaimed 1982 animated movie, The Secret of NIMH, developed by MGM and produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Animation. The film, released in 1998, pivots its plot around the character Timothy 'Timmy' Brisby, the youngest son of the original film’s main characters. This American fantasy-adventure feature brings together a talented voice cast, including Peter MacNicol, Andrew Ducote, Phillip Van Dyke, and Dom DeLuise.

The narrative centers on young Timmy Brisby who has grown from the timid character he was in the first film. The movie kickstarts with Timmy’s journey to Thorn Valley with a purpose implanted in him by the Great Owl's prophecy. The prophecy speaks of him becoming a great hero and following in his father's path. Two mice from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) who are charged with a great responsibility have faith in him. However, they and their compatriots are not the only ones keeping an eye on Timmy’s progress. Unbeknownst to him, a sinister plot is developing that puts him and those around him in immense danger.

Living in Thorn Valley, Timmy is trained by his mentor, Justin, the heroic rat leader, along with the smart and comely Jenny McBride, who holds her own secrets. She imparts the shocking revelation, involving the nefarious human scientists from NIMH, who have been recapturing the escaped animals for repeating their past heinous experiments. Anguished about Jenny’s family and the other captured animals, Timmy is resolved to embark on a perilous mission to free them, hence drifting him away from the protected utopia of Thorn Valley.

Among the other featured characters, Dom DeLuise reprises his role as the crow Jeremy, who adds humor to the narrative and bolsters the film's emotional texture with his unique friendship with the young protagonist Timmy. Peter MacNicol imparts the voice of the central character, Timmy, in his teenage years. The rest of the voice cast likewise contributes impressively to the film's dynamic character development, seamlessly blending together the threads of bravery, friendship, mystery, and action that characterize the film's narrative.

The Secret of NIMH 2: Timmy to the Rescue, directed by Dick Sebast, brings back the captivating world first introduced in the original film, coupled with a heartening underdog story, tapping into the inextinguishable spirit of the original film and expanding its universe. The animation, though contrasted with the darker and more stylized look of the first film, is nonetheless suitably detailed, with an array of unforgettable settings from Thorn Valley to the sinister NIMH facility, and the atmospheric tones lay the foundation for an animated feature.

Musically, the film features songs performed by several of the voice actors, including an inspirational song, "Just Say Yes!", that sums up young Timmy's determined spirit. Key messages of the film revolve around bravery, self-sacrifice, critical thinking, and the power of friendship, integral lessons imparted throughout the narrative.

While its direct-to-video status and lighter tonality make it a rather different beast from Don Bluth’s original masterpiece, The Secret of NIMH 2: Timmy to the Rescue nevertheless manages to deliver an intriguing plot with suspenseful twists. Timmy's transformation into a courageous hero is meticulously plotted and showcases the film's deep characterization skills. The movie also explores various facets of friendships, family bonds, personal sacrifices, and harrowing adventures that take the viewers on a roller-coaster ride of emotions.

In conclusion, The Secret of NIMH 2: Timmy to the Rescue is a bold imaginative sequel that strives to echo the success of its predecessor while displaying a distinct entity of its own. With its enhanced storyline, dramatic events, and top-notch voice cast, it holds great appeal for both the younger audience and the nostalgic returning fans of the original.