#TIFF17: “THE BREADWINNER”

Review by Siobhán Rich for Mr. Will Wong

Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon has received two Oscar nominations due in part to their unique hand-drawn style. In their latest Feature, The Breadwinner, they’ve moved their setting from Ireland to Afghanistan but retained all the magic of their previous films.

When the Taliban throw her father in jail, 12-year-old Parvana is forced to disguise herself as a boy to earn money for her family. One day in the marketplace, Parvana meets-up with an old classmate, Shauzia, who is also masquerading as a boy. During the day, Parvana tries to earn money to pay the baksheesh necessary to get her father out of prison. At night, she distracts her family by telling them the story of a brave warrior named Idrees and his quest to save his village and defeat the Elephant King.

The brilliant voice cast boasts no major stars but does an excellent job bringing Director Nora Twomey’s vision to life. Canadians Jeff and Mychael Danna have provided a beautiful score which compliments without overpowering the story. Despite the heavy themes, this Angelina Jolie-produced Movie is sure to resonate with both children and adults.

Elevation Pictures will screen The Breadwinner at TIFF ’17 at the following times:

Sunday, September 10 3:00 p.m. Winter Garden Theatre
Saturday, September 16 1:00 p.m. TIFF Bell Lightbox 2