The Red Balloon

Posted on April 29, 2008 at 2:09 pm

B+

red%20balloon.jpg Two recent films showed the influence of this classic French film about a little boy befriended by a red balloon and now the original is available on DVD for the first time. “CJ7” from China and “The Flight of the Red Balloon” from France (with a Taiwanese director) both make direct visual references to the 1956 short film, the only Oscar-winner for best screenplay without a single line of dialogue.

The Red Balloon is the story of a lonely boy (Pascal Lamorisse, son of writer/director Albert Lamorisse) who finds a large red balloon on the way to school. It has a mind of its own, following him to school like Mary’s little lamb, waiting patiently for him outside his bedroom window when his mother will not allow it in the house. The balloon is an imaginative and playful friend. When it is attacked by bullies, it seems that Pascal’s friend is lost. But an unforgettably joyous ending reminds Pascal of the power of friendship.

4 Replies to “The Red Balloon”

One of my all-time favorites; it’s wonderful to direct people to this original inspiring tale.

WOW! I am so excited this has come out on DVD. It is a beautiful film.

My 9 year old, who is very visual and loves action movies like Transformers, really enjoyed this film and it’s uplifting ending. The behavior of the balloon (which seems to feel emotions), and of the jealous boys, mad for a great discussion about feelings.

i read the book, but never had a chance to watch the movie,i really miss those innocent days:(

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