By Gittel Garnelen
Israelite’s top film critic
I asked to jump right into my role as the Israelite’s new film critic, and my request was granted (with very little pushback, I might add). I wanted to bypass the usual formalities, introductions and all that, to immediately write to, what I hope will be, my new audience of loyal readers. As far my credentials go, I assure you I’m the real McCoy. I have a semi-popular blog and a good deal of subscribers. Need I say more?
The subject of today’s article, in the spirit of Purim, is the Jewish comedy film. I thought it would be a good idea to list and discuss some films you and your loved ones might want to watch on this joyful and humorous holiday. I know my idea of a great night in is watching a film on my couch in the company of my beloved cats. Their names are Humphrey, Rock and Dean, respectively. I’m sure you can guess who I named them after!
Here are my list of four films I think you might want to watch this Purim:
1) “Bad Shabbos”
Let’s start this list off strong, shall we? This 2024 dark comedy still has me giggling. It’s got the perfect set-up for an edgy comedy, an unexpected death occurring at a Shabbat dinner, and has an excellent cast that includes Kyra Sedgwick and Milana Vanytrub. I’d like to say more about this film, but I might spoil too much if I do. It’s best to go into this film without knowing a whole lot about it, and I think I’ve already said enough! And let me tell you, “Bad Shabbos” will get you in the Purim spirit for sure.
2) “A Real Pain”
Continuing in the vein of darker comedies, this film about two estranged, mismatched cousins embarking on a Jewish heritage tour in Poland mines much of its humor from these two cousins’ awkward and hilarious interactions. This film also deals with some pretty heavy themes as well, so if you’re in the mood for a deft mix of levity and deep themes, this is your kind of movie. I think one of the actors even won an Oscar or something for his work in the film, if that means anything to you. This film is rated R, so please be advised.
3) “The Producers”
In the mood for a classic? Well, 1967’s “The Producers,” written and directed by Jewish filmmaker, Mel Brooks, might be your pick! This cult classic black comedy about a musical celebrating Hitler and the Nazis designed to fail to make its scheming producers filthy rich is guaranteed to make you laugh. Also, Mel Brooks is 99 and still kicking, so the man’s legacy should be celebrated while he’s still around, right? I think he’s even helping with the new “Spaceballs” film coming out soon. At 99, I hope I’m still be able to take my own DVDs and Blu-rays down from the shelf.
4) “Eleanor the Great”
Speaking of the elderly, this film stars 96-year old Jewish actress June Squibb, and she’s a hoot! This film deals with some pretty heavy themes like “A Real Pain,” but Squibb delivers many laughs and a performance that’s poignant and endearing. I recommend this film to anyone looking for something a little more offbeat to watch.
