Juliette Binoche in "Flight of the Red Balloon"
(Credit: IFC)
- Photos:
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- Running time:
- 114 minutes
- Cast:
- Juliette Binoche -
- Suzanne
- Simon Iteanu -
- Simon
- Hippolyte Girardot -
- Marc
- Song Fang -
- Song
- Louise Margolin -
- Louise
- Director:
- Hsiao-hsien Hou
- Genre:
- Drama
- Overall User Rating:
-
(0 ratings)
Big question: Is this plot-free French drama pretentious in a bad way or a good way?
Catch it: The French-language debut of cinema elitist fave Hou Hsiao Hsien demands the kind of patience that won’t win the director many new converts, but the light, relaxed tone lends an improbably charming air to the proceedings. And the film receives a big boost from bleached-blonde leading lady Binoche, whose showy mood-swings qualify as action set-pieces here.
Skip it: If you think Simon’s declaration that he’s going to “have a go” at his PlayStation will only remind you of all the video games you could be playing instead of watching a slow-paced subtitled art film, you’re probably not the right audience for this one anyway.
Bottom line: An observational drama that tells its story through quiet moments and everyday events--characters conduct phone conversations, go about their jobs and argue in naturalistic ways--rather than through a compelling plot. That won’t be enough for some viewers, but those willing to give the film a chance will be rewarded by Binoche’s rich performance and Hou’s warm regard for his characters.
Bonus: Although Hou supplied his actors with detailed backstories and scenarios it was up to them to fill in the dialogue for their characters.
[“Flight of the Red Balloon” is also available through “IFC In Theaters,” a video on demand service from select cable providers and DirecTV.]
