cinehoolic

The film begins as a crazy comedy but gradually becomes more of a drama: two sisters living only with their father, the former Communist mayor of their village, travel to Spain in search of work. They apparently find their way to Italy but, in the end, things turn out differently again. This vitally narrated film progresses in quick rhythm with snappy shots, absorbing images of the post-Communist Romanian countryside as it goes. The feature debut by this young Romanian director offers another angle on the Balkan mentality - its immediate association with joy and sorrow, its profound insight, explosive energy and humour, which is the driving force of life. Helmis presents Balkan chaos as life's farce which nevertheless does have its relaxing moments. (www.febiofest.cz)