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The film is built around middle adolescence changes Anne experiments during a particular summer. Anne holds the threat of the plot, offering us her reflections through the different twist. Although the film develops several other characters, it is Anne who has the spotlight, but this is in no way an issue because her natural beauty and personality make her extremely likable. A love story emerges and the power of the feelings Anne develops touch you deeply, making the film heart-warming, despite all the drama that ensues.

The film does a fine job contextualizing a god-forsaken village in the Netherlands, characteristic of many peripheral places around the world. It is plagued with violence borne out of boredom, small- mindedness and hopelessness. It also highlights some stereotypical 'Dutch' attitudes of older generations in the midst of this difficult context, such as hypocrisy, sexism and obliviousness. At the same time, though, it reminds us that the youth have a choice to free themselves, and that change is only one bus stop away.

All in all, a highly enjoyable, well-paced film, very well casted, with a light-heartening soundtrack, beautiful scenery and, most importantly, a main character that will win your heart.

This film portraits the daily life of Gloria, an average Chilean divorced 50-something woman. The plot as such may not seem exciting or innovative at first but the character of Gloria makes up for it all. We are invited to share the way Gloria confronts different situations in her life, and we are blown away by her passion, sense of humor and independence. It may be telling that even several days after watching the film I find myself thinking about Gloria and smiling. An honest portrait that runs smoothly thanks the superb acting of the main character and the right combination of scenery and soundtrack. Highly recommended.