The Breadwinner (2017)

The Breadwinner is a powerful story of survival. Although the film is completely accessible for all ages, it doesn't shy away from serious issues such as living under totalitarian regimes (in this case the Taliban), sexism, living in war zones, abuse and violence. The ability to deal with this in a way that children can understand is part of makes The Breadwinner so remarkable. And kids will understand it, likely ask questions, and certainly be inspired.

The Breadwinner jostles between two different styles of animation, a more traditional 2D style reminiscent of the filmmakers' previous effort, The Secret of Kells, as well as a 3D paper puppet style used when the main character tells her story-within-a-story. Both are beautiful making the film a joy to watch. Parvana's beautiful eyes will haunt you after seeing the film.

A warning, the story is powerful and the ending is slightly, and honestly, ambiguous. Perhaps smaller children will struggle with the brutal reality of the nature of the story. But slightly older children will be moved and inspired. The Breadwinner is a lovely treat of a film.

The Breadwinner
Starring: Saara Chaudry
Director: Nora Twomey
Writers: Anita Doron, Deborah Ellis