Cast
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Saara Chaudry
as Parvana (voice)
Soma Bhatia
as Shauzia (voice)
Noorin Gulamgaus
as Idrees / Sulayman (voice)
Laara Sadiq
as Fattema / Old Woman (voice)
Ali Badshah
as Nurullah / Talib Security Man (voice)
Shaista Latif
as Soraya (voice)
Kanza Feris
as Old Woman / Woman in Courtyard (voice)
Kawa Ada
as Razaq (voice)
Kane Mahon
as Optician / Kiln Owner Talib / Crowd Voices (voice)
Ali Kazmi
as Cousin / Fruit Seller / Market Voices (voice)
Mran Volkhard
as Megaphone Voice / Shopkeeper (voice)
Ezra Sholeh
as Apple Seller / Guard / Teen Boy 2 / Crowd Voices (voice)
Lily Erlinghauser
as Zaki (voice)
Wamiq Furoghudin
as Prison Gatekeeper (voice)
Millad Hamidkohzad
as Other Talib Boy / Guard 2 (voice)
Crew
Director
- Nora Twomey
Producer
- Tomm Moore
- Andrew Rosen
- Anthony Leo
- Paul Young
- Stéphan Roelants
Reviews
r96sk
Another super flick from Cartoon Saloon!
After watching and enjoying the Irish Folklore Trilogy from the studio, I simply had to check out their one other film to date: <em>'The Breadwinner'</em>. I actually think that's kind of a boring title to be honest, but thankfully the film is anything but.
It follows the lines that you'd, or at least I'd, expect given the subject matter, but it still adds extra weight to the story alongside plenty of heart. Saara Chaudry leads the voice cast excellently, with those behind the young Canadian putting in solid performances too. The animation, as usual for this Irish animation company, is exquisite.
I'm eager to check out Cartoon Saloon's next film, with <em>'My Father's Dragon'</em> due out at some point this year. Four films in, they haven't put a foot wrong with their releases yet. This 2017 production is very good - 8/10 from me, but it's a borderline 9/10 tbh.
Apr 11, 2022
CinemaSerf
"Parvana" is a young girl - only eleven years old - who is forced to use all of her wits and intelligence to help her family survive once her father is arrested and imprisoned by the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Her number one problem is, though, that girls are not even allowed outside of their homes without a male relative, much less permitted to work on the streets where she (recently shorn and pretending to be a boy) regales the curious with some fantastic tales of mystery and romance to try to make some money! She now has to tread a very fine line between keeping the cash coming in and avoiding the authorities, whilst she simultaneously works on a plan to try and free her dad. This is a cracking animation that tells a strong story with an engaging lead character who elicits sympathy, certainly, but who also demonstrates strength as her ingenuity is constantly tested by this intolerant administration as she simply refuses to be defeated! The style of the drawing is charming, and the score adds well to a potent story of determination, love and loyalty that is really a most enjoyable watch.
Jun 17, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Breadwinner examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Nora Twomey brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Breadwinner took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 114 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Breadwinner shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ero in guerra ma non lo sapevo, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Breadwinner offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Loving Pablo and Pussy explore similar territory, The Breadwinner stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 17, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 34m
- Revenue: $312,381
