I enjoy foreign films when they are done well, as many are. Even when I may not be fully "in the know" regarding the subject matter. Women's Balcony received good reviews, so my wife and I spent our afternoon enjoying a screening at a small local theater. It was an afternoon well spent.
I do not admit to know much about Judaism. Just the basics. But you really don't need to know much about Judaism to enjoy this film that finds humor at the intersection of religion and gender. The film begins with a minor tragedy at a small synagogue during a bar mitzva. The resulting mayhem leaves a congregation seeking answers as they face a condemned place of worship, a rabbi who has closed out the outside world and little in the way of finances. The character driven story examines changing relationships as an ambitious (and very orthodox) Rabbi offers help. The help is well received, but the relationship soon challenges the congregation, creating a rift between the men and women.
This is the first film from writer, Shlomit Nehama, who finds great humor in the simplest of forms. He deploys a sharp wit that infuses the characters with depth, while adding some levity to an otherwise mundane story. The film, like all stories, centers on conflict and resolution. The fact that you get an entertaining, funny story from such an otherwise simple foundation is the brilliance of this film.
I don't know any of the actors, but the performances were believable. The production wasn't fancy. No CGI or expensive stunts. In fact, it felt like Broadway at times. But in a good way. When the story is driven by the characters, the importance of dialogue is accelerated. This film delivers it. I loved it. I would give this film 8/10. The photos and trailer are courtesy of Menemsha Films. Enjoy the trailer:
