Maddy (14) and Henry (13) checked out some films screening at the Melbourne Children International Film Festival.
Maddy (14)
Cloudboy
Cloudboy is about a twelve-year-old boy called Niilas who is sent to Sweden to see his mother after years of separation. While he tries to adjust to the new relationship with his mother, he becomes friends with her daughter and son. They go on a great journey together putting their skills and wits to the test.
The film opens with cuts between the credits with Niilas running. It contrasted really well with the music and added suspense and mystery which made it very exciting to watch.
Niilas has to adjust to his new home and I like how well the relationships were established early on. I also enjoyed how Niilas developed and changed throughout the film. He opens up to people more and becomes more active physically and socially.
Henry (13)
Cloudboy
Cloudboy directed by Meikeminne Clinckspoor is a movie starring Daan Roofthooft as Niilas who lives in Poland with his dad. He then goes to Switzerland to visit his mum and brother. His mum with her partner owns a farm full of reindeers. Niilas does not understand most aspects of their lives and at the start, he makes many mistakes. The movie is in Polish and Swiss with subtitles.
I found the subtitles a bit difficult and not as enjoyable as if it was in English. The scenery was really nice and overall I thought it was a pretty good movie. I thought the actors were good even though they were just kids and the storyline kept me interested. I found it interesting how much was conveyed in the film through the actor’s expressions without any dialogue being spoken.
Maddy (14)
Wendy
Wendy is about a girl called Wendy who had an accident a year ago from riding a horse bareback since then she has been too afraid to ever ride again. During her visit to her grandmother, she finds a horse that she names Dixie, a horse that is going to be slaughtered by the butcher. Wendy and Dixie journey together teaching them determination and true horse love.
I am a big fan of horses and that made me like the film a lot. I loved how Wendy and Dixie developed during the film and I especially enjoyed how much of a bond they have. The music worked well within the film – sounding free and energetic suiting Wendy and Dixie’s personality.
The Children’s International Film festival runs from April 27th – April 6th.