The Kite Runner A-
Starring Khalid Abdalla, Homayoun Ershadi, and Ahmad Khan Mahmidzada
Directed by Marc Forster (Finding Neverland)
Rated PG-13 for strong thematic material including the rape of a child, violence and brief strong language
Appropriate for ages 15+
The Story: Based on the popular novel by Khaled Hosseini, Kite Runner follows the lives of two Afghani children before, during, and after the Russian invasion and the effect that their decisions have on each other.
The Good: Having not read the book, I cannot comment on the similarities or differences, but I can say that this is a very beautiful and emotional film to take in. The majority of the story takes place with the boys and their performances were remarkable, even without considering that they were not actors to begin with. Abadalla and Ershadi also turned in tremendous performances as the father and son struggling to survive in America years later. Big Kudos go to Marc Forster for difficult but rewarding direction.
The Bad: This is one heavy movie that you really have to be in the mood to see. The central focus of the film is about the rape of a child, which doesn’t exactly make this the feel good movie of the year. Bring a box of tissues and get ready to use many.
The Summary: The Kite Runner is beautiful to watch, but tough to sit through.