I do not understand how this movie has the same score as "Politiki Kouzina" and "Vitus" which both have children acting the lead role!? You cannot even compare the quality of acting, directing, script, ANYTHING!I'm sure that it is terribly difficult to find children that can act, but the little boy playing Profi, has such a flat, expressionless tone, voice and face that it was impossible to believe he feels anything for Sargeant Dunlop. Since all the story revolves around this young boy, make it worth it!The plot is so fast that no scenes are given enough time to develop. Since this story is based on a book, I'm sure there was plenty of material to work with! But i do not know where it all went!?When the hell did did they become friends, and have enough time to develop such a strong bond that Dunlop would turn up for such an "emotional" reunion 30 years later! For goodness sake! The evolution of a real friendship, which is the central concept (combined with a few historical references) is much harder than what is shown. Sorry to say but this is such a shallow movie. Poor Alfred Molina is wasted really because the script is just so poor.I understand that this is a patriotic Israelian movie but the worst thing is that it is also trying SO hard to be a "deep" movie. NO NO NO!!! There have been so many movies about the plight of the Jews, that it is a difficult subject to tackle, especially after masterpieces like "La Vita e Bella" where every single moment is breathtaking. Incidentally the movie has the same score as American Pie. I understand that...its of the same depth. But with American Pie we were laughing WITH the actors and not AT their acting abilities.

This is a fantastic coming of age movie that will appeal to film goers of all ages. The story is about a Jewish boy in Palestine prior to the formation of the state of Israel. He is befriended by a British soldier and must confront the issue of hating the British but liking this soldier. Alfred Molina, living up to his reputation as an exceptional actor in all genres, plays a compelling English soldier who has his own reservations about the British mandate. Where did they find this kid Ido Port? He is sensational. I am often turned off by Israeli's with strong accents when they speak English. Port has none of that. There is a great supporting role played by Theodore Bikel. All in all this is a very satisfying movie that I can highly recommend.

This is a typical case of a good history with a bad narrative.The movie ought to be good, the context is very interesting, Alfred Molina is a good actor, the plot is good. But there's a lot missing.The director created such a simple and superficial narrative, you won't see good cinematography, nor a good acting apart from Molina.Maybe this is a movie made for children or people who are searching for, as we say in Brazil, "water and sugar" entertainment movie, then, you might like it.I am very sorry, but with all do respect, for sure this is not like watching a Truffaut movie... People should see more Truffaut movies before comparing this movie with the movies from Nouvelle Vague's most important director.I will dare to make a comparison so you can understand what I am trying to say: La vita è bella (1997) from R. Benigni, is a movie which can be seen by children and adults, and is a 10 out of 10 movie, with a perfect and original narrative, and a beautiful history.But if you are looking for a soft-easy to watch-rainy-Sunday-kids-movie go for it.5 out of 10

What a beautiful, simply told, elegant film. A film that should be seen NOW. With all the strife in the Middle East and hatred filling the news and media, this film reaffirms our faith in love, understanding and unity in a complicated world. I do not cry in movies often.....this wonderful film got to my heart AND mind. This is what movies have been missing for so long.....a simply story told directly and honestly. There is no pulling on emotional heart strings.....no special effects.....no plot shocks at the end. Just an honest story expertly laid out by a director who trusts the story being told and her wonderful cast who executes the tale with honest emotion. This film is one to be cherished.