The filmmaker selects his target carefully, and it is the policymakers. With its illogical rules and idolization of paperwork, the British government comes off as the villian. Everybody else is just doing their job. Then there's the other side of the story the boy meets girl side. The awkwardly budding romance between Tanya and Alfie rings delightfully true and infuses the film with a light-hearted sense of hope that both lifts the mood and strengthens the argument for refugee rights Tanya is one of the few lucky enough to find someone willing to take care of her.
Flawless pacing makes for seamless transition between the two themes.
Time Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Sign up now for TIME's WorldWatch e-mail newsletter.