Without extensive knowledge of the politics behind this film, "Children of USSR" is a very enjoyable coming of age drama with just enough comic elements to make it a fun movie to watch. Slava comes from Russia, to live in Southern Isreal, a small desert town with little to do. He is faced with the usual prejudice from Isreali youths who dislike the Russian immigrants living there. Slava manages to find other outsiders like himself and they arrange a football team in order for something to occupy their time. The film follows the lives of Slava and Mucha and Svetlana, the girlfriend of Slava, as well as their immediate families. What makes the film enjoyable is the fact that the characters are all likable, and they are easy to relate to. It's also nice to see them grow and become adults as the story progresses. This film follows a familiar formula, but it really works here. It never takes itself too seriously, even though it cannot be classified as a comedy. Fascinating for audiences from other parts of the World who want a glimpse into other cultures. I had to write a review of "Yeldey CCCP" when I noticed the terrible, low rating some people gave. This is absolutely not a "2 star" film in any way! My only disappointment was that, although football is a main theme, very little actual football is shown on screen. But actor Daniel Bruck is so charismatic as Slava, that it wasn't noticeable.
