The Breadwinner review – a girl’s courage on the streets of Kabul theguardian com

Redemption-style tide of hope that flows like a river through the narrative.
The characters have quietly eloquent faces in which a single line beneath an eye can
bespeak age, weariness, worry or anger. Domestic rituals are affectionately observed –
particularly communal meals of rice and raisins (“you will feel better when your belly is
full”) – in which complex family dynamics are revealed through tiny gestures. Crucially,
3/3
all these players are drawn with a tangible tenderness – from baby Zaki, a burbling,
button-nosed bundle of joy, to a young Taliban bully who terrorises Parvana, but who is
himself revealed to be riven with fear.
Mychael and Jeff Danna’s music is lyrical and expressive, blending eastern instruments
with western orchestrations as it moves from pieces echoing the street sounds of Kabul to
the more expansive evocations of the enchanted story-world. A thrilling climax brings
together all the threads that weave through this terrific movie. Executive producer
Angelina Jolie’s name has star power, but it’s the self-effacing Twomey, making her solo
directorial feature debut, who is the real heroine of this wonderful film.
This article was amended on 29 May 2018 to include the Luxembourgish element of the
co-production.
Watch a trailer for The Breadwinner here.
Breadwinner-a person who supports their family with the money they earn.
Courage-the ability to do smth dangerous, or to face pain or opposition, without showing fear.
Fortitude-courage shown by smb who is suffering great pain or facing great difficulties.
Flit-to move slightly or quickly from one place or thing to another.
Resilient-able to recover quickly after smth unpleasant such as shock.
Venture out-to go smwhere even though you know that it might be dangerous or unpleasant.
Eloquent- able to use language and express your opinions well, especially when you are speaking in public.
Bespeak-to show or suggest smth.