The Black Balloon is an extremely funny and heart-warming coming of age Australian film about fitting in, discovering love and accepting your family.

Thomas Mollison (Rhys Wakefield - Home & Away) has moved into a new neighbourhood, new school, is turning sixteen and has an autistic brother, Charlie (Luke Ford - Kokoda & The Mummy 3) whose unusual behavior embarrasses him to no end.

When Thomas' pregnant mother (Toni Collette) has to take it easy he is put in charge of his brother Charlie with the help of his new girlfriend Jackie (international model Gemma Ward who shines in her debut acting role).

Although Thomas loves his brother, his crazy antics and sometimes disgusting behavior, it pushes him to the edge in a story that will have you crying tears of laughter and empathy.

An incredibly powerful film that is a must see for 2008.

BB rating: 5/5