Jenner is the main antagonist, often recognized as the "bad rat," in the 1982 animated film The Secret of NIMH.
Understanding Jenner's Role
Jenner plays a crucial antagonistic role in The Secret of NIMH, which is the animated adaptation of Robert C. O'Brien's renowned novel, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. While the novel delves into various challenges and internal conflicts among the rats, the film intensifies these elements through Jenner's character.
- Antagonistic Nature: Jenner is portrayed as a power-hungry and ruthless rat who strongly opposes the more benevolent and progressive leadership of Nicodemus, the wise elder of the rats of NIMH. His core motivation stems from a desire to maintain the rats' parasitic relationship with humans, rejecting the ambitious plan to establish a self-sufficient, independent society away from human interference.
- Conflict and Betrayal: Throughout the film, Jenner actively works against the colony's efforts for independence. He is responsible for undermining their plans and ultimately engages in direct conflict and betrayal against his fellow rats. This makes him a significant obstacle to Mrs. Brisby (the film's protagonist, whose name was slightly altered from Mrs. Frisby for the movie) and the rats' urgent quest for a new, secure home.
- Distinction from the Novel: It is worth noting that while the novel hints at dissenting elements within the rat community, Jenner's character and his explicit role as a primary antagonist are significantly expanded and dramatized in the film to provide a clear villainous force.
| Character Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Role | Main antagonist in The Secret of NIMH film. |
| Motivation | Power, opposition to independence, desire to continue stealing from humans, and a challenge to Nicodemus's vision. |
| Actions | Undermines community goals, orchestrates conflict, and directly threatens protagonists and the survival of the rat colony. |
| Significance | Embodies the internal strife and the inherent dangers that threaten the rats' ambitious journey toward establishing their own civilization. |
The Legacy of The Secret of NIMH
Directed by Don Bluth, The Secret of NIMH is celebrated for its distinctive animation, mature themes, and its ability to bring a complex children's story to life. Jenner's character is instrumental in building the film's dramatic tension and exploring profound themes such as courage, leadership, and the struggle for survival against both external and internal threats.
- The movie is widely admired for its artistic quality and its willingness to present a children's narrative with depth, avoiding simplistic portrayals of good and evil by including characters like Jenner who embody internal conflict.
- Jenner's presence underscores that the greatest threats to a community can often come from within, challenging the collective will and unity of its members.
Further Reading:
For more information about the critically acclaimed film, The Secret of NIMH, you can visit its IMDb page.
