Recently, I read an article that provided a list of films a young person should watch by the time they are 14-years old. Le Ballon Rouge meaning The Red Balloon was one of them. I missed the article’s prescribed deadline, but I did finally get around to watching the short film. On his way to school, Pascal, finds a red balloon and takes it with him. Soon afterward, the balloon begins to have a mind of its own, and follows Pascal around Paris. The film brought me back to being a kid again. At least for the film’s 35 minute duration. The Red Balloon reminds audiences the adventures a child experiences and the meaning of friendship. The dialogue is sparse, but the simple device of a balloon and special effect help tell a magical story of imagination. In 1956, it won the Palme d’Or for short film and an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
WORD COUNT: 153
Adam’s Grade: A
Chuck’s Grade: A
