Good concept, poorly executed.

a film so unique, intoxicating and bizarre that it not only demands another viewing, but is also forgivable as a satirical comedy where the jokes eventually take the back seat.

It’s fine. It's literally the definition of a fine movie. You’ve seen it before, you know every beat and outcome before the characters even do. Only question is how much escapism you’re looking for.

It is interesting even when nothing much happens, which is for most of its 3-hour running time. Read full review

I had pretty low expectations for the movie initially and was pleasantly surprised how good this movie turned out to be. The story line is not fast-paced but is very involving and generally looks very believable because.. that's right - it's based on a true-story. What I liked most about this movie was that there are plenty of scenes where you have to questions yourself - how did the character ended where she is now, how much time has passed, why other characters make fairly irrational decisions, have I missed something.. until you start getting clues from the movie itself - you have no time to get bored.You get a glimpse of how surreal life was in post ww2 soviet empire while it was still fresh with all the uncertainty, paranoia and ridiculousness of the times. Russian characters are played by Russians themselves - nobody else is fit for this job. In the movie you meet friends among enemies and biggest traitors among people of your own. There is at least one scene probably too psychological for average viewer and you start to question how did it end up in the script.. until you realise that the story is impossible without this part and it is there because this is what happened in real life. Definitely a must-watch.

This is one of great movies illustrating war struggles and hardships that tear apart families, create enemies out of neighbors and friends, take people by different paths. Movie presents many unfair causes that were lived and witnessed by little girl, meanwhile main role actress, even just being tiny girl, shows internally strong personality that learns very quickly to adapt and manage her way out of high risk situations. Little girl represents nation spirit that will live no matter what. As in the end she sits on the fence and sees men with guns coming for her, she is solid and strong by saying that they can deport her again because she knows the way back home.

I'm not into writing reviews, but I want to make an exception today, because seeing this movie felt like a rare experience. It differed from the Hollywood dramas that I got used to. It felt like I haven't wasted a minute, because what I saw was filled with kindness and human dignity - qualities rarely seen on screen these days. Although I'm not much of a sensitive guy, this exceptional work brought tears to my eyes several times. What touched me so much, were the sincere connections between a girl and people she met along her way.Beautiful movie, touching story, lovely young actress and remarkable supporting actors. I loved it and I would recommend anyone, who likes drama, to watch this film.