THE WHITE BALLOON

Jafar Panahi?s prize-winning and auspicious debut feature is a wonderful slice of life drama of universal appeal. Just hours before the start of Norouz, the Iranian new year, a little girl, Razieh, goes out to buy a goldfish, despite her family?s reluctance. On her way, ?wanting to see what?s bad for her to see,? a snake charmer appropriates her money. Thus begins a frantic pursuit where she explores forbidden territories, meeting new people and unexpected adventures. Razieh?s search to reclaim the lost bank note conveys an unmistakable flavor of life in Tehran today, and is winningly played out by a cast of carefully chosen actors. A charming and suspenseful fairy tale, THE WHITE BALLOON has enchanted festival audiences and was justifiably awarded the Camera d?Or for Best First Feature last year in Cannes.