MatchHead

In my opinion the filmmakers are morally reprehensible and Ian Barnes should be vilified.

While I initially enjoyed the film, I quickly realized the basic premise of this film is, "Arson is fun".

As a bunny owner the portion of the film describing the pet rabbit screaming as it burns is horrifying. That alone makes the finale, where the protagonists smile after they started yet another fire, a morally objectionable outcome.

Imagine some impressionable twelve year-old getting their hands on this film, lighter in hand. The viewpoint of the film is that arson is justified when one is mistreated.

Very funny, but very dark! I saw this little gem at an industry screening and at the outset thought that it might be a straight comedy but it gets darker and darker - which I loved. The little girl who plays Meg the arsonist is very good - haven't seen her in anything before - as are the supporting actors. Could have been a little tighter in the middle but that's a minor criticism. It was directed by Ian Barnes who was Oscar nominated for his short WISH143 so it'll be interesting to see how this film does on the festival circuit. Matchhead is darker than WISH143 (which was pretty dark itself) so it might play to a different audience. Not sure how the festivals for children will take it as there is mild swearing but it deserves to be shown in those festivals just for the performance of the little girl herself.