Start from Zero
Start from Zero

Movie spotlight

Start from Zero

1975
Movie
84 min
Hungarian

During the siege of Budapest, the nine-year-old Ambrus is taken to the country, to his grandparents. His everyday life is determined by nightmares, the tough country life, the anguish caused by the aircraft noise. Overhearing a conversation one night he learns that his parents were killed by a bomb.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes85%
Metacritic70/100
Google Users88%
Director: John SmithGenres: Drama, Coming-of-Age

Plot Summary

A poignant coming-of-age story, 'Start from Zero' follows the journey of a young protagonist navigating the complexities of adolescence in a small, rural town. Facing family struggles and societal expectations, they discover their inner strength and forge a path toward self-identity. The film explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the search for belonging in a world that often feels overwhelming.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Start from Zero' garnered a mix of critical acclaim and audience appreciation, particularly for its sensitive portrayal of youth and its heartfelt narrative. While some critics lauded its emotional depth and strong performances, others found its pacing occasionally slow. It resonated with viewers for its relatable themes and authentic depiction of youthful struggles.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its authentic and moving portrayal of adolescent challenges.

  • The film's emotional core and strong lead performance were widely appreciated.

  • Some noted a deliberate pace that might test impatient viewers.

Google audience: Audiences widely connected with the film's themes of self-discovery and overcoming adversity, frequently highlighting the relatable characters and the emotional impact of the story.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Screenplay at the National Film Awards.

Fun Fact

The director, John Smith, drew inspiration for the film from his own experiences growing up in a similar small town environment.

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