The Red Balloon (1957)

Charming

"The Red Balloon" is probably the most charming short film ever made. That's not easy to say, of course. But the simple storyline, understated acting, and pathos of "Red Balloon" make it a delight to watch in a way that few films are.

The story concerns a young boy who gets a large red balloon, which has a mind of its own. The balloon follows its new owner around Paris, and will stay when asked to. It even pursues a love interest at one point. Unfortunately, some ruffians want to destroy the balloon, possibly out of jealousy. The balloon is good at evasion, however, and the viewer is kept in suspense. The action culminates in a bittersweet conclusion which I won't reveal here. In just 34 minutes, the viewer actually develops feelings for the balloon and the boy.

Criterion's brand new transfer restores the film to its pristine state; previous releases were very grainy. So buy a copy- you'll be delighted no matter your age! July 24, 2008

Red Balloon DVD

Its a cute movie yes.. there's no talking... its done all thru vision... I was hoping it'd catch my grandson's attention more than it did... but he's pretty young.. It is cute... July 20, 2008

BEAUTIFUL FILM

I saw this film when I was 8, and I liked it so much, now I am so happy because I could feel the same when I was a kid..it is a great classical film.. July 15, 2008

All children must see this film

I remember that I saw this film with my father but I couldn't remember my age.But this film deeply influenced me.So 50 years later I ordered it and watched it like the same excitement when I am a little boy.To all big children I advise this film. July 1, 2008

An Automatic Purchase!

As with many other reviewers here, I saw this movie on a klunky, noisy film projector several times in elementary school in the 60s.

When I became a teacher, naturally I haunted book stores and movie sections. When I saw "The Red Balloon" on VHS, it was an Automatic. No pocketbook scrutiny was involved! I went with my heart.

I have used it in classes from kindergarten through 6th grade, encouraging retelling through Beginning-Middle-End format or having Limited English Proficient students generate a word bank. Both ends of the age spectrum have to generate the vocabulary, since the main intelligible words are, "Balloon!" and "Pizza!" (in French). I ask high-level "Why?" questions to encourage high-level writing. The story is straight-forward enough for the students to identify the answers, so they can concentrate on expressing themselves. Not many students have been able to resist the charm and magic of the story. These days, that is high praise, indeed!

I am looking forward to purchasing this DVD. I am very relieved to read that the color and sound qualities are better than some have reported. June 29, 2008

More reviews at Amazon.com ...