When Falafel Meets the Big Apple

O.K., so you still do the Dougie's and a movie routine, at least now go do something different for a change. The Israeli Film Festival gives one a great opportunity to glance into the life of contemporary Israel. Surprising as it may sound, Israel does have a thriving film industry and in fact it is blessed with some very talented people. The movies in the festival vary, from highly dramatic plots, to documentaries about Itzhak Rabin, to the relationship between Israelis and Palestinians. It captures Israel and its culture.

A few movies, however, stand out above all the rest. They are at the peak of excellence in the festival. "Dangerous Acts" was chosen to open the festival. This is a psychological thriller starring Gila Almagor, who portrays a woman confronted by the man who killed her entire family in a car accident. Almagor, probably one of the best actresses in Israel today, has won in the past many international awards not only for her exceptional acting, but also for being a pioneer in dealing with the issues of post-Holocaust life in the newly born state.

"Afula Express," which was released last year, is back by popular demand. It is a romantic comedy about a mechanic who goes to the big city and decides to pursue his childhood dream of becoming a magician. While performing in his hometown, he tries to get back together with the woman he always loved.

My personal favorites, however, are "Basic Training" and "Florentine." "Florentine" describes the lives of twenty-something year old friends and delves into their innermost personal and emotional conflicts; their joyous as well as their sadder moments. The series deals with real issues young Israelis face these days such as the assassination of Itzhak Rabin, relationship with their parents, sexuality and daily struggle of survival.

"Basic Training" is an action series that deals with the effects of joining the Israeli army on young soldiers, their family and friends. As a person who went through this process, I can testify to the films brutal realism.

These two very well made mini-series, originally made for T.V., were a huge hit in Israel this past summer. Anyone who feels he has any connection to Israeli young adults or wants to have one, must watch them. I highly recommend it and in fact it's "Yehareg U'bal Yaa'vor." The festival is ending March 11, so as long as you have time, take my word for it and Go Go Go ! ! !

Clearview Cinemas 59^th Street East Theater

239 East 59^th St. (Between 2nd and 3^rd)

212-759-1463

http://www.israelfilmfestival.com