This movie can seem a little slow if you are expecting a traditional Western film, but if you watch this film with an open mind willing to enjoy the art of the film-maker, then this film is absolutely phenomenal! After watching this film for the first time, I just sat there in silence, moved into thoughtfulness at its conclusion.
This film is an in-depth character study of an Orthodox Jewish family in Israel. It is told largely through imagery, supplemented with sparse conversations which are in Hebrew with English subtitles. The film follows a few days in the life of this family which demonstrates their fervent devotion to their God and religion. Most of the story is told from the perspective of their young son (again, mostly in silence through his eyes), in a very realistic portrayal of Orthodox Jewish families in Israel.
Though you don't really perceive it until the end, the film is focused around this family's response to their faith meeting tragedy. Much of the imagery and many subtle themes wrap around this central idea.
The film-makers have done an excellent job with this film, in my opinion. Theirs is not a traditional film model, and I really appreciated this. This story is truly a work of art, and it has become one of my favorite movies. It is well worth a thoughtful viewing that will challenge how you live your own faith.
