This scene can easily be likened to the communist investigations of this era, when many writers, directors, actors, and numerous people in the entertainment business were blacklisted from working, many of whom were turned in by peers who had been "beaten down" by interrogations. This film is really remarkable, considering that there is no dialogue. There are only sound effects, thus the actors must be given praise for their abilities to carry the film, especially Pascal. His portrayal of innocence and naivete comes across as truly genuine.

Without dialogue, music and sound effects take on added importance to the film. Lamorisse chooses music and sound that is very appropriate for each scene. For example, when Pascal is trying to get the balloon down from the lamppost, the music in the background adds to the mischievous nature of the boy and the story. Moreover, the sound effects also help to enhance the film, such as the ominous footsteps of the boys who are chasing Pascal and the balloon.

The story is not only about commitment, but also about love and sacrifice. For example, in the scene where Pascal and the balloon are walking in the rain, the boy lets the balloon use the umbrella, while allowing himself to get wet. This is a very touching scene, and shows how tender the young boy's heart is, how much he is willing to sacrifice...

It flows in almost storybook fashion, showing suspense during the action scenes and innocence in others as in the scene in the rain. When Pascal is in the train yard, the camera shows the danger of the metal fence, and just as the balloon comes close to the sharp points on the fence, fog rises from below and leaves the viewer wondering for several moments whether the balloon was pricked or not. The camera work is subtle, but impressive. There are no action packed special effects that are so popular today in movies aimed at younger audiences. This film is simple, clearly stated, and that is perhaps why is it regarded as a classic.
Although Lamorisse's film is only thirty-four minutes in length, it is a masterpiece. It is timeless. This film is just as poignant today as it was fifty years ago. And like any classic work, it will be just as meaningful fifty years from now, because the themes are timeless. There will always be lonely children who need to be able to connect with something, whether a dog or a balloon. Everyone needs something to love. And unfortunately, it seems that there will always be racial hatred, fear of the unknown, and fear of what is misunderstood. And there will always be those who try to destroy what they do not understand or cannot possess.

The Red Balloon" is one of those rare films that inspires the imagination of children and allows adults to ponder some of the more deeper meanings of what Lamorisse was trying to say on film.

Works Cited

Albert Lamorisse. http://movies2.nytimes.com/gst/movies/filmography.html?p_id=98570&mod=bio

The Red Balloon. Director: Albert Lamorisse. 1956.