Wow, this is a phenomenal review. I appreciate learning about different cultures/perspectives on Substack, this was a great read about Israeli cinema/culture/history and Judaism more broadly. It’s interesting how films from outside the US seem to feel more free to confront personal dilemmas American audiences might be uncomfortable with.
Thank you for this. And I’m glad you learned about Israeli culture and Judaism through this. There is a religious concept explored in the film (lech lecha) that’s worth noting too. One of Sassi’s job is as a security guard in a library where he listens in on a rabbi’s Torah group with seniors regularly. He always feels compelled to share his own thoughts on the passages.
One particular passage he comments on and a well known one from
Genesis details God telling Abraham to leave his birthplace and his home to go the place God tells him. “Lech lecha” means “Go forth" (to this new land)- It can be interpreted as "Go within yourself," which suggests a journey of self-discovery and transformation. I think the film is one where both characters are experiencing this transformation in their relationship and awakening a new understanding of the other.
In recent years I’ve started to learn a little about all the differences in Judaism. Super interesting. Not sure why that never dawned on me before. I just had this cookie cutter version in my head.
Thx for sharing Henny. I think many of us grow up this way, even as I pointed out in this piece those of us who grow up Jewish. I’m glad it interests you!
Next year I’ll go with you to the film festival. 🙏🥰
Beautifully written review and I love that you included what makes Israel the delicious “salad bowl” that it is.
Such a great review! I’ve added the film to my watchlist!
Thx Ingrid!
Wow, this is a phenomenal review. I appreciate learning about different cultures/perspectives on Substack, this was a great read about Israeli cinema/culture/history and Judaism more broadly. It’s interesting how films from outside the US seem to feel more free to confront personal dilemmas American audiences might be uncomfortable with.
Thank you for this. And I’m glad you learned about Israeli culture and Judaism through this. There is a religious concept explored in the film (lech lecha) that’s worth noting too. One of Sassi’s job is as a security guard in a library where he listens in on a rabbi’s Torah group with seniors regularly. He always feels compelled to share his own thoughts on the passages.
One particular passage he comments on and a well known one from
Genesis details God telling Abraham to leave his birthplace and his home to go the place God tells him. “Lech lecha” means “Go forth" (to this new land)- It can be interpreted as "Go within yourself," which suggests a journey of self-discovery and transformation. I think the film is one where both characters are experiencing this transformation in their relationship and awakening a new understanding of the other.
In recent years I’ve started to learn a little about all the differences in Judaism. Super interesting. Not sure why that never dawned on me before. I just had this cookie cutter version in my head.
Thx for sharing Henny. I think many of us grow up this way, even as I pointed out in this piece those of us who grow up Jewish. I’m glad it interests you!
Thank you for this. It’s very kind and generous of you to say this. And appreciated.