The Black Balloon (2008) Movie Review

The Black Balloon is a coming of age indie film from Australia that is a tender and precious gem that tugs at your heart. From first time filmmaker Elissa Down, the film tackles complex issues of family, puberty, love, and disability. The film was well-received in its homeland of Australia and is now being given a limited release in the United States.

The film follows the Mollison family in Australia, whom move from time to time due to the father (Erik Thomson) being a military man. The family includes a very pregnant and loving mother Maggie (Toni Collette), a teenage son Thomas (Rhys Wakefield) and another teenage son that suffers from autism named Charlie (Luke Ford). The film is seen through Thomas’ eyes as the family makes their new home in a suburb outside of Sydney. Charlie’s disability, which includes in a childlike state and quick outbursts takes a toll on the entire family, especially Thomas is embarrassed by his brother’s actions, which leads to an unlikely introduction to the beautiful Jackie (Gemma Ward). Jackie is down to earth and as she and Thomas come close, she also accepts Charlie despite illness. However, the family is tested as Thomas independence surges and Charlie actions fuel his anger.

This is a beautiful and compassionate film from Down, who co-wrote the screenplay based on her experiences living with two autistic brothers. The autism depicted in this film is troubling, but real and endearing as well. Charlie grows on you as the film moves forward as does the entire Mollison family, with Thomas being the protagonist of the film. The frustration and heartbreak is also at the forefront of Down’s storytelling, but the interactions and situation never feel rushed or over the top. All the characters are fleshed out well, with some of the back-story of Thomas’s swimming skills being the only element not fully explained. This is a terrific debut for Down as a filmmaker.

As Thomas, Rhys Wakefield is the glue of the film and he shoulders the load well. His emotions and actions, and even humorous moments are balanced and focused. The great Toni Collette turns in another outstanding performance as Thomas’ very pregnant and overbearing mother, Maggie. Luke Ford is nearly unrecognizable in his demanding and solid work as the autistic teenager Charlie. Ford at times is very funny in certain parts, but also uneasy to watch through some of his episodes due to autism. Ford actually played Brendan Fraser’s stud son in last summer’s The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor. Lastly, model Gemma Ward is sweet as Thomas’ understanding girlfriend, Jackie.

The Black Balloon is ultimately a film about family, that even under grim circumstances, love prevails. It is an endearing film that is not perfect, but it will make you laugh, cry, and smile. The performances are great and Elissa Down provides strong work as a narrative filmmaker.