THE RED BALLOON
The Greatest Short Film Ever Made
Through alleyways and dark corners, the balloon punctuates the urban landscape. In one moment, the protagonist Pascal, a young boy, commands the balloon, gesturing it left and right, and the balloon imitates his movements. There is a possibility that the balloon is imaginary and helps the child rationalize his perception that Paris is a threat. A teacher grabs at the balloon. It evades his grasp, flying just out of reach of his hand. Like him, many adults can’t access a child’s imaginary world–and understand a child’s perspective.
Albert Lamorisse directed the 1956 short film, The Red Balloon. His project stresses the post-World War II innocence of Paris. Images of soldiers on horseback contrast a young boy who is, at times, seems overwhelmed by life. Nonetheless, the film captures the child’s imagination. The director of photography Edmond Séchan shows off Paris in different ways. The balloon moves around with a “mind” of its own and appears more familiar with Paris than the young boy.
Pascal Lamorisse, the filmmaker’s son, plays the young star. Some of the film’s adults react to Pascal with joy and interest, while others dismiss and punish him for his activities. The balloon looks after him, so when the balloon pops, aka dies, the city’s balloons assemble. They gather to protect the boy and his life in postwar Paris. PROVOKR suggests you look for this 64-year old tale and enjoy its beauty and metaphors.
