"Baby" from 1954, a short by D.A. Pennebaker who filmed his daughter Stacy visiting the zoo in New York City. This is one of his earliest pieces and would go on to make many documentaries notably "Don't Look Back" (1967) featuring Bob Dylan on tour and "Monterey Pop" (1969), introducing the world to rock and pop stars such as The Who, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and many others.
"The Red Balloon" from 1956, written, produced and directed by Albert Lamorisse features his son Pascal who rescues a big red balloon that was snagged on a light pole. In response it seems, the balloon follows him through his days. This nearly wordless short film won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay and Palme d'or short films at Cannes.
We happened across "Baby" on the Criterion Channel and enjoyed following this curly top with a balloon through the land of giant adults. It reminded C of "The Red Balloon" which she had seen perhaps as a grad student. This is a charming, moving film and C remarked part of the appeal for Americans is the post-war urban scenery of the northern Parisian suburb where it was shot.
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| Paris Street; Rainy Day-1877 Gustave Caillebotte |
Both can be found on YT and the two clocking in together for a total of 40 minutes, well worth the time spent.
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