Note that several of these films are accessible through your local public library, Yale University resources, or foreign film and children's film distributors as noted herein. Prices for these films range anywhere between ($60 to $100)
Folktales and Legends from Around the World Film for the Humanities and Sciences Series (To order, telephone 800-257-5126.):
The Beggar of Soutile
(26 minutes). This traditional tale, usually told in the Ivoirian oral tradition, highlights the inhospitable people of an imaginary (or is it?) Ivory Coast township. One day, an impoverished beggar stumbles upon the well-to-do West African village. Hungry and thirsty, the stranger seeks the aid of the townspeople. Only one child, Balou, and her family offer him food and sanctuary. What ensues is a valuable lesson for all.
The Greedy Child
(26 minutes). This film is based on a folktale told in oral tradition in Senegal. Thirteen-year old Joomay, a mischievous youngster who never gives his sibling a helping hand in carrying out daily chores, gets him into trouble. To avoid being scolded, he runs away from home and encounters the unexpected! The lesson learned is one worth sharing with young people everywhere.
The Drop of Milk
(26 minutes). This film, based on a story told in the oral tradition in Burkina Faso, brings two very different worlds (France and Burkina Faso) together. In Burkina Faso, a land where drought is prevalent, a young boy who was milking his emaciated goat, has allowed the last drop of milk fall to the ground; his grandfather sends the boy to search for that magical last drop of milk. The scene shifts to a French pasture filled with rich soil and healthy cattle. The contrast is thought provoking, urging viewers not to take life and natural resources for granted.
Weston Woods Film Series (To order, telephone 800-243-5020.):
Zlateh The Goat. (20 minutes). This Jewish folktale by Pulitizer Prize-winning folklorist Isaac Bashevis Singer is beautifully depicted in a snow-laden agrarian community. The story begins with a rural family who, due to a harsh winter, has to sell their goat, Zlateh. Zlateh has been an integral part of the family for many years, and the son is reluctant to follow through with his father's instructions. En route to the butcher, the son encounters a grueling snowstorm. What happens next is worth the watch with valuable lesson learned.
Le Ballon Rouge/The Red Balloon
(25 minutes). Written and directed in 1956 by Albert Lamorisse. A seemingly alive red balloon befriends a lonely Parisian boy. That friendship takes viewers on a visual tour through the bustling streets of his community. Students will be captivated and touched by the film, particularly the unanticipated ending.
Not One Less
(106 minutes). Written by Zhi Xiasng Sheng; directed by Zhang Yimou. In an impoverished rural township outside of Beijing, a schoolteacher must temporarily leave his classroom duties for one month. Wei Minzhi, a 13-year old girl in need of money, is ordered by the town mayor to serve as a substitute teacher during the instructor's absence. Before departing, Wei Minzhi learns she must keep the class intact during the teacher's absence and ensure each student remains in school throughout the duration. If both tasks are successfully completed, she will receive 50 yuan ($6) plus an additional 10 yuan ($1.20) bonus for her efforts. Wei Minzhi agrees, but while carrying out her task, Zhang Mingshan, a mischievous student, leaves the school grounds to seek employment in the big city. What will Wei Minzhi do?! Perseverance and the importance of education are the empowering focus of this must-see film!
