For most of its running time, it's a bit of a slog. To some degree, it's a rewarding slog, and yet even then, not entirely.

What these kids endure could easily read as melodrama on the page, but the movie - with its shaky camera work and amateur cast, including extras who were actual migrants - maintains a stark realism.

"La Jaula de Oro" may seem like a rehash of old news. But don't be deceived.

Without exaggerations, with narrative intelligence and several truly dazzling compositions, The Golden Dream is a story of camaraderie and friendship... [Full review in Spanish]