Maine's Capital Area

 
Revolution begins young—and can be quiet or loud in this double bill of remarkable, timeless yet timely masterpieces from France. In the legendary Jean Vigo’s ZERO FOR CONDUCT (the basis for the 1968 IF..., starring Malcolm McDowell), four boarding school boys start a surrealist rebellion against their repressive administration and teachers. Initially banned, ZERO FOR CONDUCT now looks fresher than when it was made in the ‘30s. Paired with it is a film about the interior revolution a child can make internally by refusing to accept the world as imposed on them. Tormented by his cruel classmates, ignored, by adults, Pascal, the young hero of Albert Lamorisse’s truly charming fable, is befriended by a red balloon that starts to follow him around Paris. It is to prove, literally and otherwise, a way out. Astonishingly this 34 minute film from France won an Oscar in 1957 for Best Screenplay, as it wins the hearts of all who see it. Both films unrated but would likely be G or PG. In French with English subtitles. 44 min/36 min. 1933/1956.