The Yellow Balloon

What a nice neat little slice of post-war London life this film is. Being a great fan of British films from the 1950's I was delighted to discover this near-forgotten gem on DVD and it will now take pride of place in my collection. I have always loved and admired Kenneth More and as "The Yellow Balloon" came just prior to his burst to stardom in "Genevieve" we find him here in a relatively small but very significant role as the boy's loving father. I just relish every moment he is on screen and long for more of him.

Andrew Ray is on screen for the entire film and he is moving and totally convincing in role that may have scared a less competent child actor ; he is pivotal to the entire plot development. The long list of familiar players in brief but impressive appearances keep the action moving at a nice pace and at less than 90 minutes duration you really are left wanting more and not less as is the case with so many films. Noteworthy is the intense sense of atmosphere and I love the communal cold-water tap and sink in the stairway of the family's apartment block. I heartily recommend this very British film ; I know I'll be re-watching on a regular basis along with my very extensive Kenneth More collection.