A devoted father overcome with despair over his young son's illness learns that true freedom comes from love and letting go.

Juror's Comments: Red Balloon has the ability to capture so many different emotions in only ten minutes of the film. We were filled with suspense as to what the red balloons were all about. We were sad to learn that the red balloons serve to help brighten a sick boy's day and filled with happiness that the balloon has the ability to set this boy free. This film has a great deal of appeal in the way it brings about so many different feelings.

Red Balloon, a short film by Avi Federgreen, tugs at your heart as you witness a father's struggle to cope with his son's illness. He comes to realize that by protecting his son from his illness, he is actually preventing him from enjoying some last memorable moments.

Avi Federgreen is able to project a powerful message to viewers, which is what I like best about this film. A few moments of happiness is worth so much more than months or even years of misery. I watched the film a few times to actually understand the story line, because the message is a powerful one. I wouldn't say that is a reason to dislike the film, yet it may not be clear to younger viewers.

The cinematography is as perfect as it can get. The filming is clear, the weather conditions are perfect, especially on the boardwalk. I especially like the angles on the red balloon that gets caught on the branch of the tree. The costumes are perfect for an average family that is represented here. Red Balloon starts off with a boardwalk scene as we watch Tim jogging to purchase a balloon from a vendor on the boardwalk. The wind brings the balloon to life and the other families along the path make the scene believable. The home setting is a typical home which makes it easy for viewers to relate to. The sets and locations are not overdone in any way that might take away from the message of the story. The background music enhances the story line without being obtrusive. And, the song at the end of the film "Let Go" by Adaline, is special to the film's message. The song is sensitive and could easily bring tears to the eyes of the viewers. It is the perfect touch to the ending of this film. There is a visual effect that I noted when Tim accidentally releases one of the Red Balloons and we watched the balloon fly freely in the air and get caught on a branch, which represents the story line quite well.

Tim (Gord Rand), the father and main character, shows us his emotions in a very real way. His son (Etienne Kellici) is also very expressive with his actions and words. Both the mother and sister (Rakhee Morzaria, Mia SwamiNathan), although we didn't see them much, offer additional strength to this film by showing their love for their sick family member. My favorite actor in this short film is the balloon vendor (Patrick McKenna) because, as a stranger, he goes far and beyond to help a stranger who he detects is experiencing pain. You easily gain a strong sense of his compassion.

Red Balloon sends its viewers a very heartfelt message that sometimes it is best to set something free rather than holding onto it for your own benefit. The balloon which is attached to a string has the ability to be set free if the string is let go. We are not always ready to see that balloon fly freely to the sky, because we may wish to keep it near, so that we can continue to enjoy it. The balloon in this film is a symbol of life - the sick boy's life. His parents wish to keep him safe and protected, yet the boy is not happy contained in his room. After a conversation with his son, Tim realizes that by protecting his son from his illness, he is actually preventing him from enjoying some last memorable moments.

There is so much to learn about symbolism in this film. The filmmakers are so creative in this story line and get their message across quite clearly. It may take some viewers longer then others to "get it" and, they may not understand the message until the ending of the film, but symbolism has great strength. By far, my favorite part of the film is at the end where there is a great memory made by Tim and his son. After purchasing yet another red balloon from the boardwalk vendor, the two sit together by the edge of the water, share a few words and some smiles and then release the balloon. The boy seems to love watching his balloon fly freely into the sky as if he himself was set free.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 9 to 18, plus adults, Red Balloon has a beautiful message to be shared with families and would make a great addition to a KIDS FIRST! Film Festival. Reviewed by Dominic D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic