'Iron Boy' Review
Release Date: 01/22/27 [Cinemas]
Genre: Animation. Drama. Family.
MPAA: Not Rated.
Distributor: Sony Pictures Classics.
The Verdict: A Must-See
In January 2027, select US cities will feature a unique, hand-drawn animated French film: Iron Boy (Le Corset in its original language). If you’re in the mood for something completely different, beautiful, subtle, and unique, watch this gorgeously hand-painted, animated coming-of-age story in French with English subtitles.
Iron Boy is directed by former Pixar animator Louis Clichy, who also co-wrote the film based on his early childhood wearing a back brace while living on a farm in France. The story follows Christophe, a young boy diagnosed with severe scoliosis for which he must wear a Milwaukee brace, a brutal device designed to correct postural problems without surgery.
The simple yet sumptuous visuals consist of line drawings with watercolor and do a splendid job of bringing to life the rural farm setting, family struggles, and, most of all, Christophe’s battle with his spine ailment and the rigor of the metal back brace, which he must wear 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for years.
We see Christophe struggle with wanting to do things he used to love, like helping his father with farm chores, while also becoming the butt of jokes at school, where he’s called “Robocop.” The boy deals with his rage and frustration through an active fantasy life, where he imagines his head tilt as a superpower that unleashes destruction on the world around him.
The film mixes gentle humor with subtle emotion, relying on superb visuals to paint the picture rather than overusing dialogue or action. Over time, we see Christophe adapt and overcome his medical problems as he finds new outlets for his energy and emotions: assisting the organist at church, taking up swimming, befriending a girl named Clara, and ultimately learning to play the grand organ himself thanks to a caring mentor.
What I love about this film is that it doesn’t deliver a traditional happy ending. Some things get better in Christophe’s life, while others get worse. Iron Boy is almost documentary-like in how it portrays life's real ups and downs, without the typical Hollywood ending that wraps things up with a pretty bow.
Certain scenes are absolutely magical, such as Christophe looking out the window of a moving car and watching telephone lines go by as the sun sets. Another favorite scene involves a kiss and some magical realism, but I won’t say more so as not to spoil a surprise.
The choral and organ music accompanying the film adds to its elevated, artistic feel. Iron Boy is truly a gorgeous piece of art. If you liked Clichy’s Pixar films, including WALL-E and Up, give this lovely art film a shot.
Where to Watch:
