This Swedish comedy, directed by Lasse Hallstrom, recounts the tale of a 12-year-old boy, who attempts to cope with emotional upheavals in his life. Set in the late 1950s, the boy reminisces better times with his mother who is now failing in health and unable to cope with the antics of a pre-teen. The boy frequently reflects on how his life is not as bad as others, including the dog Laika who eventually dies of starvation as the Soviet Sputnik circles the globe. The boy is sent to spend the summer with his uncle while his mother goes to the sanitarium. The northern community where his uncle lives is full of eccentrics, who both charm and amuse. Returning home the old emotions and conflicts comeback. His mother dies and he sent back to live with his uncle. He is reconciled to his new situation and the story ends happily.
This is an often heart rending story, but also funny. The subtle humor and pre-adolescent conflict blend to create a charming story that is very European. Some situations depicted in the movie may not be appropriate for young children.
Lasse Hallstrom also directed What's eating Gilbert Grape (1993) and Cider House Rules (1999).