A beautiful human story that, despite its simple theme, is told in a highly engaging and meaningful way. The story is full of children’s emotions and powerful scenes that can give European viewers a glimpse into the harsh realities of a world from which they are, fortunately, spared.

Little Zahra and her brother Ali are growing up in a poor Muslim family living in Iran. Their dire circumstances are evident in the fact that, after Zahra loses her shoes, her older brother Ali has to lend her his sneakers.

The film immerses the viewer in the harsh conditions faced by people who, unlike us—who live more or less in affluence—must wear worn-out shoes until they fall apart, simply because they cannot afford new ones.

Borrowing shoes is a temporary solution that causes various complications for both children. However, they are afraid to admit to their parents that Zahra’s shoes are lost.

After some time, Ali gets the chance to find new shoes for his sister. But it’s not as easy as it might seem.

Drama

Iran, 1997, 89 min

Crew: Majid Majidi

Cast: Mohammad Amir Naji, Amir Farrokh Hashemian, Bahare Seddiqi, Fereshte Sarabandi

Parents’ Guide

About one instance of swearing (“to hell”) and referring to children as little devils.

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