The White Balloon has much in common with another Iranian movie about children, "Children of Heaven". In both, the children find themselves in a bind, and use their ingenuity to work out a solution of sorts. Overall, The White Balloon is somewhat slower, perhaps requires more patience on the viewer's part, but it may be more realistic about current-day Tehran and its residents. Children of Heaven has a bit more action and suspense, and might be a better choice for the typical Western moviegoer.
Both movies, however, feature excellent acting by the children, some heartbreaking scenes, some minor triumphs, and an intriguing glimpse of life in a truly foreign culture. Both might be called "artless" in the best sense of the word.
7/10 (vs. 8/10 for Children of Heaven)
Both movies, however, feature excellent acting by the children, some heartbreaking scenes, some minor triumphs, and an intriguing glimpse of life in a truly foreign culture. Both might be called "artless" in the best sense of the word.
7/10 (vs. 8/10 for Children of Heaven)