Review of The Black Balloon (2008) by Colin W — 14 Mar 2009

A charming film about two brothers, Tomas who is "normal" and Charlie his autistic older sibling. The Black Ballloon is well written and the scenes potraying the family's life and struggle to cope with an ADHD autistic son never feel cliche, they do occassionaly tap dance close to "drama for drama's sake" but such instances are few.

The actors give strong performances, Tomas' difficuties and struggles are portrayed with amiable subtlty until he explodes in rage. Toni Collete is on top form as the mother but it is unfortunate she doesn't have as much screentime as the rest of the cast. It is Luke Ford's portrayal of Charlie that is admirable and well crafted. Gemma Ward also establishes herself as a young actress to watch. The film is beautifully shot and the story is an endearing one, though it does feel like it wishes it was something more than what it actually is.