The Red Balloon And Other Stories: Five Films By Albert Lamorisse (Criterion Collection)

Two-disc set includes: Bim (1951)The first family-friendly offering from "The Red Balloon" filmmaker Albert Lamorisse concerns the impoverished Tunisian boy Abdullah and his love for his donkey Bim. The well-off Massoud, jealous of their bond, steals the pet and subjects him to cruel tricks, but will he have a change of heart when Bim is taken by burglars? Jacques Prévert narrates. 45 min. In French with English subtitles. BW/Rtg: NR White Mane (1953)From "The Red Balloon" helmer Albert Lamorisse comes a moving family film concerning a white stallion who leads a herd of wild horses. When a young fisherman somehow manages to tame the steed, a strong friendship develops between them. Together, the unlikely pals embark on a journey to find their way in the world. Alain Emery, Pierre Bestieux star. 40 min. In French with English subtitles. BW/Rtg: NR The Red Balloon (1956)One of the most charming films ever made, this Oscar-winning short subject from France follows a young boy who makes friends with a bright red balloon and shows their travels one day through Paris. Using no dialogue, the story is told through music and everyday sounds. Stars Pascal Lamorisse (son of director Albert Lamorisse). 34 min. C/Rtg: NR Stowaway In The Sky (1960)"The Red Balloon" director Albert Lamorisse looks at a different kind of aerial odyssey in this feature-length adventure. A young boy stows away on his grandfather's antique hot-air baloon for a breathtaking journey across the French countryside. Andre Gille, Pascal Lamorisse star. 85 min. In French with English subtitles. C/Rtg: NR Circus Angel (1965)In this lovely family film from "The Red Balloon" director Albert Lamorisse, a hapless burglar (Philippe Avron) chooses to hide out amongst a circus, has wings affixed to him by the ringmaster, and finds himself becoming a guardian angel to the ragtag troupe. Mireille Nègre, Henri Lambert also star. 75 min. In French with English subtitles. BW/Rtg: NR Standard/Widescreen; Soundtracks: French, English; Subtitles: English (SDH); featurettes.