Bashu, the Little Stranger (1989)

Bashu is a moving film about a young Iranian boy who's family is killed during a bombing raid. Bashu escapes by stowing away in the back of a truck and ends up in a completely different part of Iran. He is adopted by Naii, a mother of two young children who's husband is away looking for work.

Bashu is nervous at first, especially as the townpeople are so hostile towards him, but Naii makes him welcome in a very touching and loving way. Naii is a very special person, combining gentleness and love with great strength. She has complete faith in Bashu and is rewarded in return with his smiles and happiness.

I loved the scene with the other young boys of the village in the crop to help the plants grow quicker. The drumming was a recurring subject, and is particularly powerful when Bashu is drumming when Naii is sick.

I thought the calling to the hawks showed a connection between Naii and Bashu but also added an earthiness and naturalness to both their characters.

This is a very moving film and I recommend to anyone.