2008 Films

Svetlana is an engaging eleven-year-old girl who lives in a children’s home in Karelia, Russia. Despite certain deprivations, she gleans love and support from her friendships with others at the home. For the summer holiday, however, two Finnish host parents have volunteered to bring Svetlana across the border to Vaasa, Finland. With glaring language and cultural barriers between them, the three set off on an eye-opening journey. As the summer progresses, the obstacles become more complicated and destructive. Who is really benefiting from this undertaking and what unforeseen consequences loom ahead? ST