The White Balloon

Synopsis

The White Balloon is an enchanting Iranian film released in 1995, directed by Jafar Panahi and written by the acclaimed filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami. The movie revolves around a seven-year-old girl named Razieh, played by Aida Mohammadkhani, who embarks on a simple yet profound journey to buy a new goldfish for Persian New Year. Razieh's determination leads her through the bustling streets of Tehran, encountering a variety of characters who offer both help and hindrance. The film is celebrated for capturing the innocence and resilience of childhood, presenting a heartfelt narrative through the lens of everyday life in Iran. It’s a poignant exploration of determination, hope, and the small yet significant adventures that shape our lives.

Cast

• Aida Mohammadkhani

  Razieh

• Mohsen Kafili

  Ali

• 

  Fereshteh Sadr Orafaee

  Mother

• Anna Borkowska

  Old Lady

• Mohammad Shahani

  Soldier

• Mohammad Bakhtiar

  Tailor

Reviews

The White Balloon has garnered a warm reception from critics worldwide, earning a respectable 7.6/10 on IMDb and an 83% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have praised the film for its simplicity and emotional depth, with many highlighting Aida Mohammadkhani's sincere and captivating performance as Razieh. Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times lauded the film, stating, 'It tells a simple story, relates it to everyday life, and casts a spell in the process.' On Rotten Tomatoes, the consensus appreciates its 'apparent simplicity that belies the depth of emotions it evokes.' Metacritic users have also expressed that the film’s authentic storytelling resonates well beyond its cultural boundaries. However, not all feedback is universally positive. Some critics pointed out the slow pacing and minimalistic plot, which may not cater to all audiences. Nevertheless, the film's artistic value and emotional richness are widely recognized, making it an essential piece of world cinema.

See also

Inception

Interstellar

Pulp Fiction

Shutter Island