The Long, Long Holiday
The Long, Long Holiday
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Long, Long Holiday is a beautifully animated French series about two young Parisian children living in the French countryside during the early years of World War II. The show deals with complex topics ranging from bullying to prejudice. Even more intense subjects -- including food rationing, prisoners of war, French collaborators, and the rounding up of Jews -- arise when the country is occupied by the Germans and the war progresses. The realities of wartime are presented matter-of-factly but not graphically. Tweens, teens, and parents, especially those with an interest in history, will find plenty to appreciate here.
Community Reviews
Serious situations but brilliantly deep historical storytelling
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Absolutely fantastic show
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What's the Story?
In THE LONG, LONG HOLIDAY, sensitive, 12-year-old Ernest, his lively six-year-old sister, Colette, and their parents leave Paris to visit family in the French countryside during the summer of 1939. When Germany invades France, their summer vacation turns into an extended stay. With their father joining the army and their mother requiring treatment in Switzerland for an illness, Ernest and Colette must remain in the country with their grandparents. The children develop a close-knit group of friends who come to rely on each other as the Germans occupy their town and the war complicates their young lives.
Is It Any Good?
Beautifully animated in a style that resembles Hayao Miyazaki crossed with a Tintin comic, this wonderful, poignant series explores the five-year adventure of two siblings in the French countryside during World War II. Grounded in real behaviors and believable stakes, the show explores the personal hardships and simple pleasures of everyday life during wartime. Whether it's receiving a letter about the fate of your father who's off at war, or bonding with friends in your secret clubhouse, the creators present these moments realistically and without the blatant emotional manipulation that often characterizes kids' programming. The Long, Long Holiday is told through the eyes of the children, but the sharp storytelling and smart script respect the intelligence of the audience, making it a perfect example of a show that can truly be enjoyed by the whole family.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it's like to live in wartime. How does it affect kids?
All the characters in The Long, Long Holiday act bravely at one time or another. Are there different types of courage? Why do you think it's an important character strength?
Ernest and Colette are bullied when they first arrive but later become friends with the bully. Is this believable? Have you ever been enemies with someone who you later befriended?
TV Details
- Premiere date: April 15, 2015
- Cast: Clara Quilichini, Julien Crampon
- Network: Netflix
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters, Friendship, History
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: April 1, 2022
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For kids who love history
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