Directed by
Sooni Taraporevala
Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Little Zizou (2008). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.
In the bustling streets of Mumbai, an 11-year-old boy, Xerxes, affectionately known as Little Zizou due to his intense passion for football, dreams fervently of bringing his idol, the legendary French footballer Zinedine Zidane, right to his doorstep. His older brother, Artaxerxes, or Art, is a creative soul whose imaginative and artistic flair is showcased in remarkable ways. Their father, Khodaiji, proudly sees himself as a guardian of faith, thriving on the admiration and financial support of his devoted followers.
In the midst of this family dynamic, Art finds himself entangled in a story of unrequited love for Zenobe, the daughter of Khodaiji’s arch-rival, Pressvala. As a forward-thinking newspaper publisher, Pressvala’s progressive ideals often clash with those of Khodaiji. Meanwhile, little Xerxes nurtures a sweet affection for Mrs. Pressvala, who has become a nurturing figure in his young life.
Tensions soar when Pressvala publishes a scathing article criticizing Khodaiji, igniting a firestorm of public outrage. As animosities between the two families flare, a significant shift occurs: Liana, Pressvala’s younger daughter, finally accepts Xerxes as a friend just as chaos escalates with Pressvala’s office being shut down by their father in an attempt to assert control.
The narrative takes a gripping twist when Pressvala suffers a heart attack, placing the family’s conflicts under a microscope. With all this turmoil brewing, a pivotal question hangs in the air: will Khodaiji choose to change his ways and find a path to coexist with his adversaries? Moreover, can Art finally get Pressvala to allow him to pursue his feelings for Zenobe? As the story unfolds, the answers to these pressing questions reveal themselves amid the chaotic yet heartwarming tapestry of family and rivalry.
Follow the complete movie timeline of Little Zizou (2008) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.
Life in Mumbai
Amidst the bustling streets of Mumbai, an 11-year-old boy named Xerxes, affectionately called Little Zizou, dreams of becoming a star footballer. His passion for the sport is immense, especially his admiration for French football legend Zinedine Zidane, whom he hopes to meet one day.
Art's Creative Pursuits
Xerxes' older brother, Artaxerxes, known as Art, showcases his artistic talents through various imaginative projects. Art's creative soul stands in contrast to the religious fervor that their father, Khodaiji, embodies as he seeks admiration from his followers.
Khodaiji's Role
Khodaiji, the father of Xerxes and Art, considers himself a guardian of faith. His financial stability relies heavily on the support of his devoted followers, which often leads to tensions with those who oppose his traditionalist views.
Art's Unrequited Love
Art finds himself in a complicated relationship with Zenobe, the daughter of his father's rival, Pressvala. His infatuation with her complicates family dynamics and deepens the rift between their two families.
Xerxes' Friendship
Despite the ongoing rivalry, little Xerxes develops a sweet friendship with Mrs. Pressvala, who offers him a maternal figure amidst the chaos. This relationship serves to further intertwine the two families’ fates.
Pressvala's Article
Tensions flare dramatically when Pressvala publishes a scathing article that vilifies Khodaiji, igniting public outcry and hurled accusations between the families. This article becomes a catalyst for escalating hostilities.
Breaking Point
As animosities rise, the relationship between the two families reaches a boiling point. Liana, Pressvala's younger daughter, unexpectedly befriends Xerxes, which only adds complexity to the already fraught connection between their fathers.
Pressvala's Office Shutdown
In a display of power, Khodaiji intervenes by attempting to shut down Pressvala's office, exacerbating tensions between the families. This act is seen as an attempt to assert control and dominance over his rival.
Pressvala's Heart Attack
The narrative takes a pivotal turn when Pressvala is struck by a heart attack. This health crisis brings the family conflicts to a new level, compelling both families to confront their animosities amid the looming question of reconciliation.
Reflection and Choices
With the crisis unfolding, Khodaiji grapples with the question of whether he can change his ways and coexist peacefully with Pressvala's family. This moment forces him to reflect on his past decisions and the impact they have had on his children's lives.
Art's Determination
At the same time, Art is determined to pursue his feelings for Zenobe. He hopes to gain the approval of Pressvala, which now seems even more challenging given the heightened tensions stemming from their fathers' rivalry.
Hope for Reconciliation
As events unfold, the characters find themselves at a crossroads, with hope for reconciliation lingering in the air. The chaos of family drama and rivalry lays the groundwork for potential healing and new beginnings.
Explore all characters from Little Zizou (2008). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.
Xerxes
Xerxes, affectionately called Little Zizou, is an 11-year-old boy with a deep love for football and dreams of meeting his idol, Zidane. His youthful innocence and determination make him a charming protagonist, navigating family dynamics and friendships. Xerxes represents hope and the desire for connection in a turbulent environment.
Artaxerxes
Artaxerxes, known as Art, is Xerxes' older brother with a creative spirit. His artistic pursuits and romantic interests add complexity to his character as he grapples with unrequited love for Zenobe. Art's journey reflects a struggle between passion and rivalry, showcasing the trials of young love in a competitive world.
Khodaiji
Khodaiji is the father of Xerxes and Art, embodying the role of a traditional patriarch deeply rooted in his beliefs. Proud and protective, he strives to maintain his authority while facing off against his rival, Pressvala. His character reflects the challenges of upholding tradition in a changing society.
Pressvala
Pressvala, the antagonistic newspaper publisher, represents modern ideals that clash with Khodaiji's beliefs. His progressive views create tension within the narrative, especially concerning his daughter Zenobe. Pressvala's character challenges traditional norms and highlights the generational conflict within the story.
Zenobe
Zenobe is the daughter of Pressvala and the object of Art's affections. Caught between her father's ambitions and her own feelings, she embodies the complexities of young love and family loyalty. Zenobe's character adds depth to the theme of romance amid rivalry.
Mrs. Pressvala
Mrs. Pressvala serves as a nurturing figure in Xerxes' life, providing warmth in the tension that exists between the families. Her character exemplifies compassion and support, serving as a counterbalance to the rivalry around her. She is a stabilizing presence amidst personal conflicts.
Learn where and when Little Zizou (2008) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.
Time period
The movie takes place in contemporary times, a period characterized by rapid social changes and modernization in India. This era highlights the clash between traditional beliefs and contemporary ideals, which is at the heart of the characters' conflicts.
Location
Mumbai
Mumbai, India's largest city, is known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and as a financial hub. The bustling streets are alive with a mix of people and energy, reflected in the dreams and conflicts of the residents. It is a place where tradition meets modernity, making it a backdrop for stories filled with ambition and rivalry.
Discover the main themes in Little Zizou (2008). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.
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Unrequited Love
The theme of unrequited love is pivotal in 'Little Zizou', particularly through Art's affection for Zenobe. It explores the pain and longing that comes with love not returned, adding emotional depth to the rivalry between families. This theme resonates with the universal struggle to be accepted and loved.
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Rivalry and Reconciliation
Rivalry plays a central role in the story, especially between Khodaiji and Pressvala. The conflicts between their families challenge their beliefs and encourage self-reflection, leading to potential reconciliation. This theme emphasizes the importance of understanding and compromise amidst animosity.
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Passion for Football
Football serves as a symbol of dreams and aspirations in Xerxes' life. His idolization of Zinedine Zidane reflects the influence of sports in shaping personal identities. The game becomes a backdrop for the characters' desires and conflicts, illustrating how passion can inspire hope.
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