A.R.M. Around Moscow

A.R.M. stands for 'American Russian Matchmaking', which is a company that couples American men with Russian women. Four times a year, initiator Ron takes a group of candidates to Moscow on a festive tour, dropping in at potential wives' places. At first sight, both parties benefit from the deal: the American men feel that their female compatriots are too independent and demanding, the Russian women consider their fellow countrymen weaklings and dipsomaniacs. Obviously, under the skin the balance of power is rather shaky at various levels. The makers of this film followed an A.R.M. trip to Moscow and by showing how the people are being paired off particularly examine the women's motives. Their spirits broken by the hard economical conditions, these women are hoping for a better life and mutual affection. In that order. Back in America, two couples talk about their experiences. The filmmakers handle the rather wry subject matter with a sense of humour and without any moralistic intentions.