The central character is Ariel, whose mother runs a lingerie store. He also has a brother in the import-expert business. There’s an emotional gap in Ariel’s life—the absence of his father, who took off for Israel without returning. The young man also faces the frustration of finding life a dead end in Argentina. He searches for his roots in Poland in hope that he can obtain a Polish passport that will allow him to travel to places that offer more excitement and opportunity. Daniel Hendler is an appealing actor in the role of Ariel in looks and ability and does a convincing job portraying his inner conflicts.

The assortment of characters is colorful, including Ariel’s mother Sonia, played with spirit by Adriana Aizemberg, and Ariel’s knowing grandmother, portrayed sympathetically by Rosita Londner. There is also an intriguing ethnic mix, although the main focus is on the Jewish characters.

The storytelling is a blend of incidents rather than linear. Once one gets the rhythm of the jumping around, the film’s overall pattern makes sense. There are some particularly effective moments, as when Ariel’s mother and her new boyfriend are seen dancing in a community theater rehearsal, demonstrating to Ariel that his elders still have the potential for joy.