Common Sense Media Review
By Grace Montgomery
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Subtitled, sweet coming-of-age caper has mature themes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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The Zigzag Kid
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In THE ZIGZAG KID, 12-year-old Nono's father (Fedja van Huêt) is a top police inspector and is determined to train Nono (Thomas Simon) to follow in his footsteps. But the truth about Nono's absent mother, Zohara, is a mystery he's unable to solve. When a zany stunt lands Nono in his cousin's bar mitzvah cake, he's sent to his uncle to learn how to curb his more wild tendencies. But when Felix (Burghart Klaußner), a notorious thief, shows up on the train and tells Nono he's been sent by his father to give him his last training to be a top inspector, Nono knows it's his chance to finally the solve the mystery of Zohara. But as he discovers that Felix isn't exactly who he says he is, Nono has to decide how far he's going to go to discover the secrets of his past.
Is It Any Good?
Zany and fun, but also nuanced and bittersweet, this lovely coming-of-age story is a treat. Nono's past is beautifully brought to life in whimsical imaginative scenarios that range from laugh-out-loud funny to heartbreakingly sad in flashback scenes reminiscent of Amelie. And the bold retro style and fun soundtrack will appeal to kids and adults alike.
More sensitive tweens may find the final details about Nono's past upsetting, but The Zigzag Kid doesn't wallow in the darker themes. Its ultimate message about embracing yourself, no matter how different you are, is beautifully presented, making this film a wonderful choice for older tweens and up.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Nono. How does he show integrity in The Zigzag Kid? Why is it important for him to know the truth about his past and finally talk with his father?
How does Nono show curiosity?
How is mental illness addressed in the film? Do you think people with mental illness are treated differently now from how they were in the time period presented in the film (the 1960s and '70s)?
Movie Details
- In theaters : September 9, 2012
- On DVD or streaming : December 9, 2014
- Cast : Isabella Rossellini , Thomas Simon , Burghart Klaussner
- Director : Vincent Bal
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Menemsha Films
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Integrity
- Run time : 95 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 25, 2020
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