Tout en haut du monde

Once started I couldn't stop watching it. As others have commented, this is a film that draws you in very easily and doesn't let go.

I love the mood of the piece, even though the spoken language is French, it is not too difficult to believe the Russian backdrop with its practical and down to earth characters who are a largely likable bunch. Though they are mostly lacking in sentimentality, yet they are gently encouraging and unexpectedly generous to the heroine through her hardships.

The visual style also suits the film perfectly and though deceptively simple, manages to fully convey the emotion of each character as well as the setting of each scene, which is at times hauntingly beautiful.

The story is a familiar one of perseverance in the face of adversity and it is easy to cheer the heroine on as she tries to adjust and overcome the obstacles she encounters.

The ending is a little abrupt until you watch the credits that continue the rest of the story, right to the close.

Touching, affirming and highly recommended.