Jews on Film: Exploring Jewish Stories & Themes in Cinema

Marty Supreme Movie Trailer

Among Neighbors w/ Pamela Lavitt

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:30:22 +0000

Harry and Daniel welcome back Pamela Lavitt, director of the Seattle Jewish Film Festival, to discuss Among Neighbors, the powerful documentary by Yoav Potash that uses animation to explore a haunting Holocaust story about survivors confronting the role their own neighbors played in wartime violence. Together, they examine how animation is reshaping Holocaust storytelling, the challenges of presenting difficult histories, and the film’s themes of memory, identity, and reconciliation.

Along the way, the conversation expands to the evolving landscape of Jewish cinema, trends in animated documentaries, highlights from the Seattle Jewish Film Festival, and the enduring question: when films challenge uncomfortable truths, is that ultimately good for the Jews?

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100th Episode Special: "Mel Brooks The 99 Year Old Man!" w/Yuli Masinovsky

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:45:09 +0000

For their 100th (give or take) episode, Harry and Daniel celebrate a major milestone by revisiting where it all began—with their very first guest, Yuli Masinovsky. Together, they keep things loose, reflective, and a little bit meta as they dive into The 99 Year Old Man, the documentary from Judd Apatow chronicling the life and legacy of Mel Brooks.

Along the way, the trio looks back on four years of podcasting—how the show has evolved from plot-heavy breakdowns to more thematic, free-flowing conversations—and what it means to build a creative project over time while balancing careers, families, and life changes. They revisit early Jews on Film staples like “the stretch,” the IMDb summary, and the ever-elusive perfect format.

On the film side, the conversation explores Brooks as both a comedic pioneer and a complicated cultural figure: his role in shaping Jewish-American humor, his connection to figures like Sid Caesar, and the lineage of comedy that runs from the Borscht Belt to today. The group also digs into the documentary itself—its length, structure, and whether it reveals anything new about a performer who’s always “on.”

Most provocatively, the episode wrestles with questions of Jewish identity in Brooks’ work: Is his humor a bridge to mainstream audiences or a performance for an in-group? Does the film sidestep deeper explorations of Judaism in favor of persona and mythmaking? And what does it mean for a Jewish artist to both embrace and satirize his own identity?

It’s a celebratory, thoughtful, and occasionally heated conversation about comedy, legacy, assimilation, and storytelling—plus a few looks ahead to the next 100 episodes.

Mazel tov to Jews on Film… and here’s to 100 more.

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Marty Supreme w/ Leigh Stein

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 07:44:46 +0000

Harry and Daniel are joined by writer Leigh Stein, author of the novel If You’re Seeing This, It’s Meant for You, to unpack the ambition, anxiety, and Jewish bravado pulsing through Marty Supreme, directed by Josh Safdie.

Rather than simply treating the film as a sports drama, the conversation zeroes in on Marty as a driven artist figure — obsessive, self-mythologizing, hungry for greatness, and constantly performing his own legend. What does it mean to chase excellence not just as an athlete, but as a Jew carrying history, insecurity, and defiant pride on his back (and sometimes around his neck)?

Leigh brings her sharp cultural lens to questions of ego, survival, and spectacle — including Marty’s provocative swagger and the ever-lingering communal anxiety: Is this good for the Jews? Is Marty a symbol of resilience, a caricature of excess, or both at once?

It’s a lively, searching conversation about ambition, representation, and the thin line between self-invention and self-delusion — with plenty of ping-pong metaphors along the way.

Marty Supreme on IMDb

Leigh's Links

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The Princess Bride w/ Michael Lukk Litwak

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 07:55:15 +0000

Harry and Daniel dive into the swashbuckling fairy tale classic The Princess Bride with filmmaker and special guest Michael Lukk Litwak, director of Molli and Max in the Future.

Directed by Rob Reiner and written by legendary screenwriter William Goldman (adapting his own novel), The Princess Bride is a story of fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love—and, yes, miracles. But it’s also something more: a distinctly Jewish-inflected fairy tale wrapped in the rhythms of a grandfather’s bedtime story.

Harry, Daniel, and Michael explore Goldman’s wry, self-aware storytelling voice, Reiner’s humanistic direction, and how the film balances sincerity and satire without ever winking too hard. They unpack Mandy Patinkin’s unforgettable turn as Inigo Montoya, the comedic brilliance of Wallace Shawn and Billy Crystal, and the film’s surprising emotional depth beneath all the quotable lines.

Together, they ask: What makes this fairy tale feel so grounded? How does Jewish humor shape the film’s tone? And why has The Princess Bride endured as a generational touchstone for audiences who can quote it line for line?

As you wish… it’s an episode about storytelling, myth-making, and why true love (and a good screenplay) conquers all.

Michael's Links

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After Hours w/ Nabil Ayers (Re-Release)

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 07:55:24 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome Nabil Ayers - music industry entrepreneur, podcaster, musician, and author to discuss Martin Scorsese's 1985 dark comedy "After Hours" starring Griffin Dunne, Rosanna Arquette, and Linda Fiorentino.

They discuss SoHo in the 1980s, Scorsese’s exploration of temptation and punishment, how this film fits into the "Yuppie Nightmare" canon of films alongside others like "Fatal Attraction" and "American Psycho,” and how tough it was to get into a walkup apartment when the buzzer wasn't working.

As always, they end the episode by ranking the film’s Jewishness in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088680/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/LQRawYZl-ls

Joe Frank's NPR Monologue that partially inspired "After Hours"- https://youtu.be/MIG636ri4r8

Check out Nabil's podcast, Identified

Check out Nabil’s book - My Life in The Sunshine

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When Harry Met Sally Trailer

When Harry Met Sally with Temim Fruchter (Re-Release)

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 07:45:50 +0000

This week, Daniel and Harry are joined by Temim Fruchter, author of "City of Laughter" out now! They discuss the classic 1989 film "When Harry Met Sally..." starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan directed by the late Rob Reiner.

First, they touch on why the film has sustained as one of the best Rom-Coms, pointing to the improvisation and natural conversations that drive the film's narrative. Then they discuss coincidence and synchronicity related to Harry and Sally's run ins throughout the film.

They also answer one of the most controversial questions in food lore: What is your bagel order?

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

When Harry Met Sally on IMdB

Temim's Links

City of Laughter on Bookshop.org

Temim Fruchter on Twitter

Temim Fruchter on Instagram

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Meyerwitz Stories on IMDB

Everything is Illuminated w/ Tanya Singer

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 07:50:07 +0000

Harry and Daniel are joined by special guest Tanya Singer to explore Liev Schreiber’s 2005 film Everything is Illuminated. Starring Elijah Wood as a young Jewish American traveling to Ukraine in search of his grandfather’s past, the film blends absurd humor with profound reflections on memory, trauma, and the long shadow of the Holocaust.

Together, the group discusses the film’s road-trip structure, its use of comedy as a gateway to grief, and what it reveals about diaspora Jews returning to Eastern Europe in search of meaning. As Alex Perchik himself might say, this episode is “very premium discussion… many thinking, much feeling, and not so much crying (maybe little).”

Tanya's Links

Movie Resources

The Meyerwitz Stories w/ Shawn Levy

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 08:00:21 +0000

Harry and Daniel settle in with a nice luke warm bowl of shark soup and are once again joined by author Shawn Levy to delve into Noah Baumbach’s “The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected)”, a darkly comic portrait of a fractured Jewish family in New York.

With standout performances from Adam Sandler, Ben Stiller, Dustin Hoffman, and Emma Thompson, the film explores themes of sibling rivalry, parental expectations, and the burden of legacy. The hosts unpack Baumbach’s signature style, the film’s Jewish sensibility, and what it reveals about art, memory, and the bonds of family.

Meyerwitz Stories trailer

Shawn Levy’s Links

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Barton Fink w/ Tim Blake Nelson

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 16:45:17 +0000

Daniel and Harry step away from their latest Capitol Pictures assignment—something about a wrestling picture?—to dive into the Coen Brothers’ Barton Fink. They are joined by actor, writer, director, and novelist Tim Blake Nelson, whose new book Super Hero adds an extra layer to their exploration of creativity, identity, and the strange, sticky world of Hollywood.

Together, they unpack the film’s Jewish themes, its surreal portrait of the “life of the mind,” and why Barton Fink still feels so eerily relevant. From peeling wallpaper to the pressures of writing for “the common man,” this conversation blends film history, industry insight, and classic Jews on Film humor—without the Hotel Earle’s heat.

Barton Fink Movie Trailer

Barton Fink on IMDb

Tim's Links

Purchase "Super Hero" by Tim Blake Nelson

Upcoming Events

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An American Tail w/ Robin Schwartzman

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 07:49:21 +0000

Harry and Daniel are joined by caricature artist Robin Schwartzman to revisit Don Bluth and Steven Spielberg’s animated classic An American Tail, the story of Fievel Mousekewitz and his family’s journey from Russia to America. Beneath its colorful animation and unforgettable songs lies a deeply Jewish immigration story, echoing themes of displacement, perseverance, and hope. The hosts explore the film’s historical context, its portrayal of Jewish immigrant life, and the lasting cultural impact of Fievel as a symbol of resilience and belonging.

An American Tail on IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090633/
An American Tail Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTQ0qTubGz8

Robin's Links

Buy a signed copy of "Drawing Influence" - https://www.drawinginfluence.com/shop
Find Robin Schwartzman on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/robinschwartzman/

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Hester Street w/ Jason Diamond

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:50:14 +0000

🧳 A tale of immigrants, Yiddish, and the struggle between Old World traditions and New World dreams.

Jason Diamond, author of Kaplan's Plot, join Harry and Daniel to revisit Joan Micklin Silver’s 1975 classic Hester Street, a groundbreaking portrayal of Jewish immigrants in turn-of-the-century New York.

Starring Carol Kane in an Oscar-nominated performance, the film captures the tensions between assimilation and tradition, Old World and New, as Jewish families navigate the challenges of American life. They explore the film’s authentic use of Yiddish, its role in American independent cinema, and the ways it reflects enduring questions of Jewish identity in America.

Jason's Links

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Adaptation w/ Julie Klausner

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 06:45:15 +0000

Harry and Daniel are joined by podcaster & writer Julie Klausner to tackle Adaptation, Spike Jonze’s wildly inventive collaboration with screenwriter Charlie Kaufman. Starring Nicolas Cage in a dual role as Kaufman and his fictional twin brother, the film bends narrative form to explore writer’s block, creativity, and self-doubt. The hosts discuss Kaufman’s uniquely Jewish lens on storytelling, the blending of comedy and melancholy, and how the film fits into a broader tradition of Jewish metafiction in literature and cinema.

Adaptation on IMDb

Adaptation Movie Trailer

Julie's Links

How Was Your Week Podcast?
Double Threat Podcast w/ Julie & Tom Sharpling
Julie Klausner on Instagram

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Spaceballs w/ Gil Ozeri

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 06:55:23 +0000

Daniel and Harry are once again joined by actor & comedian Gil Ozeri to discuss the 1987 classic, Spaceballs.

Join them as they uncover the ways Mel Brooks brings his Jewish voice and humor to this parody of Star Wars and the classic tropes it inspired. Listen in as they talk about the power of the Schwartz, the Druish princess Vespa, and the all powerful (and very Jewish) Yogurt!

Spaceballs on IMDb

Spaceballs Trailer

Gil’s Links

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Pee-wee's Big Adventure w/ Michael Schulman

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 06:55:03 +0000

Daniel and Harry are back for Season Five of the podcast! In this premiere episode, they welcome back writer Michael Schulman to talk about Tim Burton's 1985 classic, "Pee Wee's Big Adventure" . They cover the excellent documentary film, "Paul Reubens as Himself" before heading out hitchhiking on the road to uncover what the film has to say about being an outsider, wandering in the desert, and trying their best not to say the secret word of the pod! AHHHH

Pee Wee's Big Adventure Movie Trailer

Pee Wee's Big Adventure in IMDb

Michael's Links

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Season 5 Trailer

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 06:30:28 +0000

Daniel and Harry drop in to let you know what to expect on this season of Jews on Film!

Messiah of Evil w/ Sammy Harkham

Thu, 08 May 2025 11:15:00 +0000

Cartoonist and editor Sammy Harkham, author of the recent and critically acclaimed graphic novel Blood of the Virgin, joins hosts Harry and Daniel to discuss the 1973 cult classic horror film, Messiah of Evil, co-directed by Willard Huyck and Gloria Katz. A 70s era stylized West Coast horror, the movie has acquired a cult following and is credited as one of the conceptual forbearers of the modern zombie film.

They discuss the movie's aesthetic successes in spite of, or perhaps because of, its extremely limited budget. They explore themes of the tension between community and identity, the banality of emotionless evil, and argue some Jewish readings of the film's conception of its Messianic ideas.

Purchase Sammy's Book

Follow Sammy Harkham on Instagram

Messiah of Evil Movie Trailer

Messiah of Evil on IMDb

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Purchase Matthew's new book, The Golden Hour

Mr. Klein w/Matthew Specktor

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 06:55:00 +0000

Writer and critic Matthew Specktor, author of the new novel The Golden Hour, joins hosts Harry and Daniel to discuss Joseph Losey’s haunting 1976 film Mr. Klein. Set in Nazi-occupied France during the lead-up to the infamous Vel d’Hiv roundup of Jews, the film follows Alain Delon as an art dealer who becomes ensnared in a chilling case of mistaken identity with another man who may be Jewish—and may not even exist.

Together, they first talk about real life cases of mistaken identities of their lives. Then the trio move on to explore the film’s Kafkaesque tone, its eerie resonance with contemporary concerns about identity and complicity, and how Mr. Klein confronts France’s legacy of antisemitism and historical erasure.

With the episode’s release coinciding with Yom Hashoah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day, we hope you’ll find added connection to the day and think of those lost.

Follow Matthew Specktor on Instagram

Mr Klein Movie Trailer

Mr Klein on IMDb

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The Prince of Egypt w/ Stephanie Butnick

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 06:55:00 +0000

Along the way, they unpack midrashic moments, sibling rivalry, and why this animated epic remains a Seder-season staple for so many Jewish households. Cue the plagues, and press play.

The Prince of Egypt on IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120794/

The Prince of Egypt Trailer - https://youtu.be/SsGcttNUi9c

Golda Guide - https://www.goldaguide.com/

Stephanie Butnick on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sbutnick/

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BONUS: Sabbath Queen w/ Sandi DuBowski

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 06:55:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome director Sandi Dubowski to talk about his new documentary film, Sabbath Queen. They discuss what it was like to film Amichai Lau-Lavie and his life over the course of 21 years and how does someone know when a film is finished?

In addition they cover the depictions of the various expressions of Judaism onscreen and how Amichai sought to create his own path after wrestling with his families legacy. Finally, Sandi shares some thoughts around weaving more current events into the film post October 7th and how coming to the table with others to dialogue is more important than ever.

Check out Sabbath Queen at the Seattle Jewish Film Festival Here - https://seattlejff.org/events/sjff2025sabbathqueen/

Check out the Seattle Jewish Film Festival Here - https://seattlejff.org/

Find out more about Sabbath Queen - https://www.sabbathqueen.com/

Follow Sabbath Queen on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sabbathqueenfilm

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BONUS: Seattle Jewish Film Festival w/ Pamela Lavitt

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 06:55:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome back DIrector of the Seattle Jewish Film Festival Pamela Lavitt to chat about the festival and Jewish cinema at large. She shares memories of exciting and notable moments from its 30 year history and talk about this year's slate of films and events. Then the group discusses how audiences are looking for Jewish joy and unique in-person experiences in cinema.

Check out the Seattle Jewish Film Festival Here - https://seattlejff.org/

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BONUS: Shari & Lamb Chop w/ Lisa D’Apolito

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 17:45:00 +0000

In this special bonus episode of Jews on Film, hosts Harry and Daniel sit down with director Lisa D’Apolito to discuss her new documentary, Shari & Lamb Chop. The film explores the life and legacy of Shari Lewis, the beloved puppeteer, children’s entertainer, and creator of the iconic Lamb Chop.

Lisa shares insights into Lewis’s groundbreaking career, her impact on generations of viewers, and the challenges of bringing her story to the screen. Tune in for a fascinating conversation about nostalgia, storytelling, and the enduring magic of Shari Lewis and her famous puppet sidekick.

Buy tickets for Shari & Lamb Chop at the Seattle Jewish FIlm Festival Playing March 28th at 1pm - https://seattlejff.org/events/sjff2025shariandlambchopsrmatinee/

Shari & Lambchop Movie Trailer - https://youtu.be/un2Z1JnCsvY

Shari & Lambchop on IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt17720348/

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The Jazz Singer (1927) w/ Richard Bernstein

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 06:56:00 +0000

Harry and Daniel are joined by special guest Richard Bernstein, author of Only in America, to explore the groundbreaking yet controversial 1927 film The Jazz Singer. As the first feature-length "talkie," The Jazz Singer revolutionized Hollywood, but its themes of assimilation, the American Dream, and generational conflict remain just as compelling today.

The conversation delves into Al Jolson’s electrifying performance, the film’s cultural impact, and the complicated legacy of both the movie and its star—including the troubling use of blackface, which continues to spark debate.

Plus, they trace The Jazz Singer's origins—from short story to stage play to cinematic milestone—and consider how it shaped portrayals of Jewish identity on screen. Tune in for a fascinating discussion about one of the most significant (and controversial) films in Jewish and Hollywood history.

Buy Richard's book, Only in America - https://bookshop.org/p/books/only-in-america-al-jolson-and-the-jazz-singer-richard-bernstein/20143816

The Jazz Singer on IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0018037/

The Jazz Singer on YouTube - https://youtu.be/PMvn8Ws-l0c

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Bad Shabbos Tickets at Seattle Jewish Film Festival

BONUS: Bad Shabbos w/ Daniel Robbins

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 07:55:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry catch up with director & co-writer Daniel Robbins to talk about his new film, Bad Shabbos. They talk about the origins of the film, authentically portraying a Shabbat meal on the Upper West Side, and discuss working with the film's incredible cast. Finally, they pitch a few stretches to him about aspects of the film and manage to get the answers straight from the source!

The film is playing at the 30th Annual Seattle Jewish Film Festival on April 5th as part of its closing night ceremony. Director Daniel Robbins attending with a champagne + cheesecake filmmaker reception after.

Bad Shabbos Movie Trailer

Bad Shabbos on IMDb

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The First Annual Jews on Film "Oyscar" Awards

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 07:55:00 +0000

In this special episode, Harry and Daniel brush off their tuxedos and gather their past episode show notes to discuss some of the current year's Academy Award picks.

Then they move on to the eagerly anticipated "Oyscars" and highlight Jewish excellence in cinema in categories like "Best Onscreen Food", The Most Coded Jewish Non-Explicitly-Jewish Character, The Favorite “Stretch” Of The Year and many more.

Congratulations to all the films that were nominated, a special thank you to all of our guests from 2024, and thanks to everyone who listens to the podcast!

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Once Upon A Time in America Trailer

Once Upon A Time in America w/ Margalit Fox & George Robinson

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 07:55:00 +0000

In this Director's Cut length episode of the pod, Harry and Daniel explore Sergio Leone’s epic crime saga, Once Upon a Time in America (1984), examining its portrayal of Jewish gangsters, memory, and the American Dream.

They are joined by Margalit Fox, author of The Talented Mrs. Mandelbaum: The Rise and Fall of an American Organized-Crime Boss, and veteran film critic George Robinson, author of Essential Judaism: A Complete Guide to Beliefs, Customs, and Rituals.

Together, they discuss the film's historical inspirations, its intricate narrative structure, and its place within the broader context of Jewish representation in cinema.

Guest Links

Margalit Fox's Books

George Robinson's Books

Movie Links

Once Upon A Time in America on IMDb

Once Upon A Time in America behind the scenes doc on YouTube

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"A Real Pain" Movie Trailer

A Real Pain w/ Sam Ostroff

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 07:54:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry dive into "A Real Pain" with guest Sam Ostroff. Jesse Eisenberg’s latest film takes two bickering cousins on a Holocaust-themed road trip through Poland—what could go wrong?

They explore how the film navigates inherited trauma, the many ways a “Jewish experience” can look on screen, and what Martin Buber’s "I & Thou" has to do with family dysfunction. Plus, a stop in Lublin, where history looms large. Tune in for laughs, existential musings, and just the right amount of Jewish guilt.

"A Real Pain" on IMdB

"A Real Pain" Conversation Guide from Reboot Studios

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The Goonies Movie Trailer

The Goonies w/ Liz Asch Greenhill (Live at EJC in Portland)

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 07:55:00 +0000

Recorded live at the Eastside Jewish Commons in Portland, Oregon, this special episode of Jews on Film explores the beloved 1985 classic The Goonies! We’re joined by writer, artist, and acupuncturist Liz Asch Greenhill for a lively discussion on how the film’s themes of treasure hunting, outsider camaraderie, and family legacy resonate with Jewish storytelling traditions. Plus, we’ll dive into Portland’s connection to the film and take questions from our live audience. Join us for an adventurous deep dive into The Goonies—Jews on Film style!

The Goonies on IMDB

Liz's Links

Find Liz Asch Greenhill on Instagram

Liz's Podcast Body Land

Liz's website

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AI: Artificial Intelligence Movie Trailer

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AI: Artificial Intelligence w/Arnon Shorr

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 07:55:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by writer and filmmaker Arnon Shorr to dive into the futuristic, heart-wrenching world of A.I.: Artificial Intelligence. Together, they explore Steven Spielberg’s sci-fi masterpiece, its ambitious take on humanity, and some surprisingly resonant Jewish themes—because even robot boys can wrestle with questions of identity, longing, and belonging.

From Pinocchio parallels to existential crises, this episode asks: Can artificial beings find meaning? What does it mean to "choose life" in a world built for humans? And most importantly, does the robot bear count as an honorary mensch? Plug in, power up, and join us for a lively and insightful discussion that’s sure to leave your circuits buzzing.

AI: Artificial Intelligence on IMDB

Arnon's Links

Read Arnon's book Wayfarers

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Jan 18- Jews on Film Live Podcast in Portland Oregon @EJCPDX

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"You Don't Mess with the Zohan" on IMDb

Revisiting "You Don't Mess with The Zohan" w/Jake Gillis: Is it a Jewish film or just an Israeli film?

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 07:45:00 +0000

This week on Jews on Film, we’re diving deep into the outrageous, hummus-packed world of Adam Sandler’s You Don’t Mess with the Zohan.

Our special guest, Jake Gillis, host of the podcast Sababoosh, joins us to break down the film’s over-the-top portrayal of Israeli culture, its unlikely existence as a major Hollywood studio film, and where it lands in the broader spectrum of Jewish representation on screen. Is this movie pure absurdity, or does it sneak in some profound commentary between the falafel jokes?

Grab your hummus, cue the disco, and join us for a lively discussion about one of the wildest Jewish comedies ever made!

"You Don't Mess with the Zohan" trailer

Check out Jake's podcast Sababoosh

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Purchase Sam Lipsyte Books

Exploring Jewish Identity & Trust in Marathon Man w/ Sam Lipsyte

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 07:59:00 +0000

Harry and Daniel are joined by acclaimed writer Sam Lipsyte for a deep dive into Marathon Man (1976), a gripping thriller packed with espionage, dental horror, and Dustin Hoffman at his best. Together, they explore the film's Jewish themes, its iconic villain Dr. Szell, and the cultural impact of that unforgettable question: "Is it safe?" Tune in for sharp insights, laughs, and a fresh take on this cinematic classic.

Marathon Man on IMDb

Marathon Man Trailer

Friends of the Pod from Gagosian Gallery

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"Cha Cha Real Smooth" Trailer

Finding Your Purpose & Selfless Acts of Kindness in "Cha Cha Real Smooth" w/ Shoval Tshuva

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 07:59:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by film maker Shoval Tshuva to take trip down memory lane to reminisce about wax hands, Shirley temple drinks, line dancing and other classic bar & bat mitzvah memories through the lens of Cooper Raiff's 2022 film Cha Cha Real Smooth.

They talk about Raiff's depiction of Bar Mitzvah life based on his childhood of attending parties, how Andrew is a selfless individual on a mission to help others, and despite our age, some of us never figure things out.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

"Cha Cha Real Smooth" on IMDb

Shoval Tshuva on Instagram

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You've Got Mail Trailer

Bookstores, Romance, and Identity in "You’ve Got Mail" w/ Ilana Kaplan

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 06:55:00 +0000

In this season four premiere of Jews on Film, Daniel & Harry are back to dive into the timeless charm and nuanced layers of Nora Ephron's beloved romantic comedy, You’ve Got Mail.

Joining them is Ilana Kaplan, author of Nora Ephron at the Movies, to explore how Ephron’s witty writing and sentimental storytelling capture Jewish identity, New York City, and the intricate dance of love in the digital age.

Together, they discuss the film’s iconic scenes, the cultural nostalgia of ‘90s New York, and how Ephron’s unique perspective as a Jewish storyteller shines through.

Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on identity, community, and romance in this rom-com classic!

You've Got Mail on IMdB

Buy Nora Ephron at the Movies

Ilana Kaplan on Instagram

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Girlfriends movie trailer

Finding Your Chutzpah: Breaking Boundaries in Girlfriends (1978) with Jessie Kahnweiler

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 05:59:00 +0000

Join Harry and Daniel as they dive into the world of Girlfriends—the groundbreaking 1978 film by Claudia Weil that some have called "the Jewish Frances Ha."

This week, they’re joined by filmmaker and actress Jessie Kahnweiler to unpack the story of Susan, played by Melanie Mayron, as she navigates life, friendship, and independence in a way that’s as bold as it is relatable.

Expect a lively discussion about Susan’s undeniable chutzpah, the film’s nuanced portrayal of female friendship, and finding your path on your own terms. Of course, no conversation would be complete without spotlighting some of the movie’s best (and corniest) Jewish jokes, along with their signature "Jewishness" ranking—covering everything from cast and crew to content and themes.

And don’t miss the bonus at the end, where Jessie gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming film, Just the Tip!

Girlfriends on IMDb

Jessie's Links

Jesse Kahnweiler on Instagram

Just the Tip Trailer

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Eddie Schmidt on Instagram

Documentary or Satire? Decoding Albert Brooks' "Real Life" with Eddie Schmidt" | Jews on Film

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 06:59:00 +0000

Harry and Daniel welcome acclaimed director Eddie Schmidt to the pod to discuss Albert Brooks’ pioneering meta-documentary “Real Life,” released in 1979.

Join them as they track the film’s exploration of truth and reality, and Brooks’ repeated meddling in the “reality” of his subjects. They then consider the different modes of performance in the film, and discuss how a God-fearing Jew is uniquely equipped to survive in an overly-observed world. Finally, they discuss the shlemiel and shlimazel archetypes and debate which each of the characters represents in the film. As always, they rank the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Stick around for the end of the podcast to hear a little bit more about Eddie‘s latest project “Good One: A Show About Jokes" and some of the parallels to "Real Life" as well as how he set out capturing Mike Birbiglia’s process in creating a special.

Real Life Trailer

Real Life on IMDb

Eddie's Links

Good One: A Show About Jokes

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X-Men First Class on Trailer

Jewish Themes in 'X-Men: First Class' – A Deep Dive with Yacov Freedman | Jews on Film

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In this electrifying episode of Jews on Film, Daniel and Harry are thrilled to be joined by Yacov Freedman, Sr. Producer of TCM's acclaimed series The Plot Thickens. Together, they dive into the dazzling world of 2011's X-Men: First Class, directed by Matthew Vaughn. 🦸‍♂️💥

This action-packed discussion covers everything from Magneto's poignant backstory as a Holocaust survivor to the X-Men's historical role as stand-ins for marginalized members of the Jewish, LGBTQ+, and Black communities .

📽️✨ As they unpack the film's historical influences and character dynamics, you'll also hear Harry's heartfelt confession of his admiration for Michael Fassbender.

Don't miss this opportunity to explore the superhero saga's deeper meanings and its cultural impact! 🌟🦹‍♀️

X-Men First Class on IMDb

Yacov's Links

The Plot Thickens on Apple Podcasts

Yacov Freedman on Twitter

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BONUS: The Nightingale of Iran Episode One - The Time Machine

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry had Danielle Dardashti on last week to discuss the film Persepolis, and this week they are sharing the first episode of Danielle's series, "The Nightingale of Iran", enjoy!

____________________________

Sisters Danielle and Galeet Dardashti grew up in a Jewish American family band: The Dardashti Family. They sang international folk music in 12 languages – English, Hebrew, Yiddish, Ladino, Greek, Spanish, French, Japanese and more – but never any songs in Persian. This seems odd to them since both their father and grandfather were famous Iranian singers during the “Golden Age” for Jews in Iran, before the Islamic Revolution. Danielle and Galeet make a discovery that takes them back in time, and helps them find answers to their questions about why their family left Iran and abandoned their Iranian identity.

Co-creators / Co-executive producers - Danielle Dardashti and Galeet Dardashti

The Nightingale of Iran - nightingaleofiran.com

Presented by The Jewish Telegraphic Agency, a publication of 70 Faces Media

Host - Danielle Dardashti

Writer / Director / Senior Producer - Danielle Dardashti

Producer / Musical Director / Subject Matter Expert - Galeet Dardashti

Audio Editors / Sound Designers - Rebecca Seidel and Zachary Goldberg

Story Editor - Rider Alsop

Story Consultant - Asal Ehsanipour

Composer of Theme Song - Galeet Dardashti: “Melekh” from her album Monajat, featuring Younes Dardashti (with Shanir Blumenkranz, Max ZT, Zafer Tawil, Philip Mayer)

In Episode 1, The Time Machine, you heard our conversations with: Farid and Sheila Dardashti, Shahla Javdan, Homa Sarshar, Lili Keypour, and Nahid Pirnazar.

Thank you to our sponsors:

-Jewish Writers’ Initiative Digital Storytellers Lab / Maimonides Fund

-Common Era

-Younes and Soraya Nazarian Family Foundation

-The Himan Brown Charitable Trust

-UCLA Mickey Katz Endowed Chair in Jewish Music

-Be’chol Lashon (fiscal sponsor)

Intro credits read by: Michelle Dardashti

Cover art design: Ghulam Nabi

Assistants: Courtney Cunningham & Jessica DeWeese

Marketing / PR: Tink

Distributed by PRX, the Public Media Exchange

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The Nightingale of Iran Podcast

Persepolis w/ Danielle Dardashti

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by Danielle Dardashti, co-creator and producer of "The Nightingale of Iran" podcast to discuss "Persepolis," the 2007 animated film co-directed by Marjane Satrapi.

They discuss Marjane’s split sense of identity throughout the film, and Danielle shares parallel stories of her grandfather that reflect the experience of living in Iran during the fall of the Shah and rise of the Islamic Fundamentalism during the late 1970s.

Then the three talk about religious as well as national persecution for Iranians at that time and finish up the discussion weighing the pros and cons of various modern storytelling mediums such as graphic novel, animated film, and audio podcast.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Persepolis Movie Trailer

Persepolis on IMDB

Danielle's Links

Danielle Dardashti on Instagram

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"Kentucky Fried Movie" Trailer

Kentucky Fried Movie w/ Adam Lisagor

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by Adam Lisagor, commercial director and founder of Sandwich, to discuss the 1977 film “Kentucky Fried Movie” directed by ZAZ.

Adam first shares how the film had a profound impact on his directing tone & style. Then he shares a few Zucker stories from past family gatherings, rates the commercial parodies in the film, and the three even welcome legendary producer Samuel J Bronkowitz!

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDB

Adam’s Links

Sandwich

Adam Lisagor on Twitter

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Bottoms w/ Raye Schiller

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by comedian and co-host of the Yenta podcast, Raye Schiller to discuss the 2023 film "Bottoms" directed by Emma Seligman.

First, they unravel how PJ and Josie's sarcasm and lies unwittingly sow chaos among their classmates. Then, they dissect the tribalism between school cliques, revealing subtle Jewish undertones. Finally, they explore Rachel Sennot’s knack for portraying Jewish-coded characters and her standout role in this film.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Raye Schiller on Instagram

Raye's Links

Yenta! Podcast

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Indiana Jones & the Raiders of The Lost Ark w/ David Tuchman

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Join Daniel & Harry on an exhilarating adventure as they welcome acclaimed writer and podcaster David Tuchman to unearth the Jewish treasures buried within Steven Spielberg's iconic 1981 masterpiece, "Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark."

Prepare to delve into the thrilling world of archaeology, exploring how it sets out to preserve ancient traditions, artifacts, and customs. Discover the fascinating accuracy behind the depiction of the Ark of the Covenant and uncover the hidden depths Spielberg wove into the film. The conversation takes a bold turn as they analyze the portrayal of Nazis as unequivocal villains and ponder the possibility of such clear-cut antagonists in contemporary cinema.

As the episode reaches its climax, our hosts highlight the most Jewish moments, debate the “stretches of the pod,” and tackle the ultimate question: Is "Raiders of the Lost Ark" good for the Jews?

Tune in for a riveting discussion, packed with insights and spirited rankings of the film’s overall Jewishness.

Read David's Story "Chelm, NJ"

David Tuchman's Links

Listen to OMGWTFBIBLE

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Made for Each Other w/ Becky Feldman

Fri, 24 May 2024 03:20:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome actress, performer, and host of the podcast "Too Stupid to Live" to discuss the 2023 Hallmark film "Made For Each Other".

After tracing the mythological roots of the Golem, they discuss the notion of doing what you truly want versus what's expected of you, imperfection as positive trait rather than something to shy away from, and finally they settle the score the best flavor of babka and how to pronounce kugel.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Becky Feldman on instagram

Becky's Links

Too Stupid to Live

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Tradition vs Progress : Daniel Robbin’s Take on Moneyball | Jews on Film

Thu, 09 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Batter Up! Daniel & Harry welcome film maker Daniel Robbins to discuss the 2011 film, "Moneyball" directed by Bennet Miller and starring Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman.

They discuss the notions of tradition vs progress in baseball as well as Judaism, the use of statistics and negotiating depicted in the film, and discuss which biblical figures Billy Beane and Peter Brand most resemble.

Finally, they end the episode by selecting their most Jewish scenes, “stretches of the pod,” debating if the movie is “good for the Jews” and ranking the film’s overall Jewishness.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1210166/

Movie Trailer - https://youtu.be/D1R-LwHbld4

Daniel Robbin's Links

Watch "Bad Shabbos" at Tribeca Film Festival - https://tribecafilm.com/films/bad-shabbos-2024

Follow Daniel on instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danrobb11/

Follow Daniel on Twitter

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Dough w/ Meir Zwanziger | 4/20 Special Episode

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 07:20:00 +0000

In honor of 4/20, Daniel and Harry are joined by friend of the podcast, Meir Zwanziger, to discuss the 2015 film Dough starring Jonathan Pryce and Jerome Holder.

Before diving into the movie, they share their experiences with cannabis and explore the possible historical connections between Judaism and cannabis.

Then the trio discusses the depiction of Jewish and Muslim religious traditions in the film, as well as the portrayal of socio-economic and generational divides among the various characters.

Finally, they end the episode by selecting their most Jewish scenes, “stretches of the pod,” debating if the movie is “good for the Jews” and ranking the film’s overall Jewishness.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1517471/

Movie Trailer - https://youtu.be/Y7b4IoNRhtk

Meir's Links

Sababoosh Podcast

Sababoosh Substack

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Buy Leah's cookbook Portico

Big Night w/ Leah Koenig

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry don their chef whites and sharpen their kitchen knives as they welcome food writer Leah Koenig for their biggest meal yet: a hearty discussion of 1996's "Big Night" co-directed by Campbell Scott and Stanley Tucci.

Join them as they go on a spiritual journey through the film and celebrate the divine nature of a great meal.

Leah's Links

The Jewish Table (Leah's Substack)

Leah Koenig on Instagram

Movie Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQQhoYLsoHI

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0115678/

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Reversal of Fortune w/ Jason Zinoman

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Join Harry, Daniel, and their guest Jason Zinoman, critic at large for The New York Times, as they share a plate of ginger prawns (Kosher of course) at their favorite Chinese Restaurant and unpack the Jewishness of Barbet Schroeder’s “Reversal of Fortune,” starring Glenn Close, Ron Silver, and Jeremy Irons in an Oscar winning performance.

Tune in to hear them discuss the way protagonist Alan Dershowitz is faced with positive and negative stereotypes of his Jewishness, debate Judaism’s perspective on upholding the law when things get morally ambiguous, and answer the question of whether or not Claus Von Bulow has a good sense of humor.

Finally, they end the episode by selecting their most Jewish scenes, “stretches of the pod,” debating if the movie is “good for the Jews” and ranking the film’s overall Jewishness.

IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0100486/

Movie Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qU7cBiiYcUg

Jason’s Links

The Martin Chronicles Podcast - https://martinchronicles.buzzsprout.com/

Jason on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/zinomanj/

Jason on Twitter - https://x.com/zinoman

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This is Spinal Tap Trailer

This is Spinal Tap w/ Yoshie Fruchter

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In their season four debut, Harry and Daniel welcome musician extraordinaire Yoshie Fruchter to discuss "This is Spinal Tap,” the 1984 directorial debut from Rob Reiner.

They debate the introspective Jewishness of the mockumentary format, compare the travails of the band to those of the Jews lost in the desert, and crank things up to 11 as they celebrate they tow the line between stupid and clever!

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Spinal Tap on imdb

Check out the new Sandcatchers album, The Lines

Yoshie Fruchter on Instagram

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BONUS: Seattle Jewish Film Festival Interview w/ Director Pamela Lavitt

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by Pamela Lavitt, Director of the Seattle Jewish Film Festival.

Pamela shares her insights on what makes a film Jewish, reveals the latest trends in Jewish movies, covers a few notable films playing this year, and makes a surprising pitch for a Jewish read of "Barbie" and “The Matrix.”

Check out the full festival schedule (March 2-17) and buy tickets here: https://seattlejff.org/

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When Harry Met Sally Trailer

When Harry Met Sally... w/Temim Fruchter

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 17:00:00 +0000

They also answer one of the most controversial questions in food lore: What is your bagel order?

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

When Harry Met Sally on IMdB

Temim's Links

City of Laughter on Bookshop.org

Temim Fruchter on Twitter

Temim Fruchter on Instagram

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Adam's Book The Golem of Brooklyn

Hudson Hawk w/ Adam Mansbach

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by Adam Mansbach, author of Golem of Brooklyn, to talk about the 1991 Bruce Willis film, Hudson Hawk.

They explore themes of moral relativism, as it relates to sin and crime in the film, argue for Hawk’s role as a Jewish stand-in left behind by an ever changing world, and make the case for the film’s irreverent tone, arguing its intention and merit (and possible Jewishness) against the outsized criticism it has received.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Hudson Hawk on IMdB

Hudson Hawk Trailer

Adam Mansbach Links

Adam Mansbach on Twitter

Adam Mansbach on Instagram

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"Defending Your Life" Trailer

Defending Your Life w/ Gil Ozeri

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome writer, comedian, and performer Gil Ozeri to discuss "Defending You Life" written and directed by Albert Brooks.

First, they discuss Albert Brooks and his groundbreaking work as a comedian and film maker leading up to this stage in his career.

Then they dive into the film and discuss what the Jewish perspective on heaven and hell, biblical references in the bottomless sushi, how intellectual improvement is depicted in the film, and finally they each consider what the afterlife may look like.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb Page

Follow Gil Ozeri on Twitter

Follow Gil Ozeri on Instagram

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Meet The Parents Trailer

Meet the Parents w/ Noah Gittell

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome journalist, film critic, and author Noah Gittell to discuss the 2000 film "Meet The Parents" directed by Jay Roach.

Before discussing the film, Noah talks about his personal connections to the film's themes and filming locations.

Then they touch on the importance of and emphasis on honesty in the film, what happens when Jewish and WASP cultures collide with one another over dinner and how that provides an apt frame for the Jewish American experience.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Meet The Parents on IMDb

Follow Noah Gittell on Instagram

Follow Noah Gittell on Twitter

Pre-Order Baseball: The Movie

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The Rabbi's Cat on IMDb

The Rabbi's Cat w/Daniel Lobell

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome stand up and comic book creator Daniel Lobell to discuss the 2011 film "The Rabbi's Cat," directed by Joann Sfar and Antoine Delesvaux.

Before diving into the film, they share some thoughts on how they are processing the news out of Israel and Gaza as well the rise of antisemitism in the US.

Then they talk about the film’s visual and narrative approach to adapting the graphic novels, explore the way Judaism relies on language and communication to resolve its conflicts, and observe the way the film draws connections across social boundaries that are closer than the ones within.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

The Rabbi's Cat trailer

Fair Enough Comics

Daniel Lobell on Twitter

Daniel Lobell on Instagram

Reconquistador Film

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Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Watch Charm Circle on the Criterion Channel

The Pawnbroker w/Nira Burstein

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome filmmaker Nira Burstein to discuss "The Pawnbroker," a 1964 film directed by Sidney Lumet and starring Rod Steiger.

They unpack the film’s exploration of collective trauma and its consequences on the individual, consider the way the movie might be received by those more and less familiar with the Holocaust, and analyze how the film’s trailblazing editing techniques heighten Sol’s internal drama and put the audience in his head.

Finally, they talk to Nira about her debut documentary feature, Charm Circle, now streaming on the Criterion Channel!

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

The Pawnbroker Trailer

Imdb Page

Nira Burstein on Twitter

Nira Burstein on instagram

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Nathan Cykiert on Twitter

Beau is Afraid w/ Nathan Cykiert

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome producer and writer Nathan Cykiert to discuss Ari Aster's larger than life epic film, “Beau is Afraid” from 2023, starring Joaquin Phoenix.

They consider the Jewishness inherent to the neuroticism and anxiety of the film’s titular Beau, as well as his relationship to his guilt-inducing mother (but don’t worry, they all love their Jewish mothers). They further unpack the Jewish connections to the use of water as a device throughout the film, and question the omnipresence and seeming control Beau’s mother Mona wields over his life.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb Page

Movie Trailer

Nathan's Links

Nathan Cykiert on Instagram

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Leah Gottfried on Instagram

Fiddler on The Roof w/ Leah Gottfried

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000

For their 50ish Episode Spectacular, Daniel and Harry are joined by Leah Gottfried, creator of the acclaimed comedic web series “Soon by You,” to (finally) discuss the much requested “Fiddler on The Roof.” The film came out in 1971, was directed by Norman Jewish and stars Topol and Norma Crane.

They explore the legacy of the film and how it has inspired the way the world at large thinks of Jews for over 50 years. They consider how the film’s themes of the tension between tradition and progress are as relevant as ever. And of course, they take the time to shout out some of their favorite songs from the beloved musical.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in term of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Fiddler on The Roof on IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067093/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk

Trailer - https://youtu.be/gsDP-90j9x8?si=aKploYuwxI10ZGgH

Leah's Links

Dignity Entertainment

We Don't Talk About Haman music video

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Follow You're Missing Out on Twitter

Bonus: Jews on Film on "You're Missing Out" discussing Tevye (1939)

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 11:30:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry recently had the opportunity to be guests on You're Missing Out to discuss the 1939 Yiddish film Tevye, starring Maurice Schwartz. Enjoy!

"He's as accustomed to the whip as I am to poverty."

You might know Sholem Aleichem's celebrated comedic hero of Yiddish literature, Tevye (or Tevya) from the musical Fiddler on the Roof. But decades earlier, titan of the Yiddish theatre scene Maurice Schwartz got a camera and a cast together and brought Aleichem's stories to the silver screen for the first time with Tevye.

We teamed up with Daniel Zana & Harry Ottensoser from Jews on Film to discuss the significance of this, the first non-English film ever inducted into the National Film Registry. We look at how it reflects the culture of the Jewish diaspora of both Aleichem and Schwartz's era, the brief but impactful Yiddish Cinema movement, and of course...tradition!

Listen to You're Missing Out

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Bonus: You Are So Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah Interview with Director Sammi Cohen

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry speak to Sammi Cohen for a bonus episode conversation about the film "You Are so not Invited to my Bat Mitzvah," streaming now on Netflix.

Tune in to hear Sammi’s thoughts on Jewish humor, what the modern Jewish world looks like, and on the validity behind some of Daniel and Harry’s wildest stretches.

Movie Trailer: https://youtu.be/LXciH__hbTw

Sammi’s Instagram: https://instagram.com/sammicohen

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Waltz with Bashir Trailer

Waltz with Bashir w/ Elan Golod

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by Elan Golod, director of "Nathan-ism," to discuss the 2008 film "Waltz with Bashir" directed by Ari Folman.

They cover the film’s exploration of memory and its malleability, dive deep into the distinction between historical truth vs story truth (and its relation to Jewish Midrash and the Seder), and make the case for why this film might be more Israeli than strictly Jewish.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

_____________________

Waltz with Bashir on IMDb

_____________________

Nathan-ism website

Nathan-ism on Instagram

_____________________

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The Apartment Movie Trailer

The Apartment w/ Julie Klausner

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by actor, comedian, and writer Julie Klausner to discuss the 1960 classic, “The Apartment” directed by Billy Wilder and starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine.

They attempt to read the film’s protagonists as emblematic of the Jewish immigrant, marvel at the strong Jewish representation in the Dreyfuss characters and their promotion of “being a mensch,” and make the case that this may be one of the best movies “for the Jews.”

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

The Apartment on IMDb

Julie Klausner on Twitter

Listen to Julie Klausner on the Double Threat Podcast

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Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Follow Michael Schulman on Twitter

Born Yesterday w/ Michael Schulman

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by New Yorker staff writer Michael Schulman, author of Oscar Wars, to discuss about the 1950 classic film, "Born Yesterday" directed by George Cukor and starring Judy Holliday and William Holden.

They talk about the film's journey from Broadway to the big screen and Judy Holliday's long campaign to be cast as the lead in the film. They also cover how "Born Yesterday" places value on being an educated person, how assimilation is depicted onscreen, and what the movie has to say about democracy and the political system in Washington D.C.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Find Oscar Wars on Amazon

Born Yesterday on IMDB- https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0042276/

Born Yesterday trailer on YouTube - https://youtu.be/QL3NsTHAQ8s

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Airplane! w/ Eli Lebowicz

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 10:45:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by comedian Eli Lebowicz to discuss the 1980 film "Airplane!" directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker.

They discuss the film’s layered, Talmudic approach to humor, uncover the Biblical origins of Jewish sarcasm, and consider how much longer the famous Jewish athletes leaflet would be in 2023!

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Airplane! on IMdb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080339/

Airplane! Trailer - https://youtu.be/JWNBROLN8Oc

Connect with Eli Leibowicz

Twitter - https://twitter.com/EliLebowicz

Website - http://www.elicomedy.com/

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Buy Jenny's book Funny You Don't Look Funny online

Crossing Delancey w/ Jenny Caplan

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 10:50:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by Dr. Jennifer Caplan, author of Funny You Don't Look Funny, to discuss 1988’s “Crossing Delancey,” directed by Joan Micklin Silver and starring Amy Irving and Peter Riegert.

They discuss the film’s themes of tradition versus progress within Judaism, unpack how Sam represents, and ultimately subverts, the “Nice Jewish Boy” trope, and analyze how the film respects Izzy’s journey towards finding the right path for herself, without judgement.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Jenny Caplan on Twitter

________

IMdB

Movie Trailer

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

RRR w/ Avishai Weinberger

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 10:50:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by writer and director Avishai Weinberger to discsuss the 2022 epic "RRR" directed by S. S. Rajamouli, and starring N.T. Rama Rao Jr. and Ram Charan.

They discuss the Biblical scale of some of the film’s epic set pieces, the global reception of such a culturally specific film (and what that could mean for Jewish stories), and how the movie leans into earnest sentimentality without undercutting it for a joke.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

RRR Trailer - https://youtu.be/f_vbAtFSEc0

RRR on IMdb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8178634/

Follow Avishai Weinberger on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/avishaioddity/

Follow Avishai Weinberger on Twitter - https://twitter.com/avishaiw

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Exploring Jewish Identity Through Film (Live)

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this special episode, recorded in March 2023, Daniel & Harry were invited to speak at the Jews at Microsoft group. During this virtual presentation, they go over the origins of the podcast, their favorite movies covered, and discuss common themes like Jewish coding, non-Jews playing Jews, Job like characters, and of course the stretches!

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

JoJo Rabbit w/ Becky Braunstein

Thu, 18 May 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry are joined by comedian and actor Becky Braunstein to discuss the 2019 film of “Jojo Rabbit” directed by Taika Waititi starring Roman Griffin Davis, Thomasin McKenzie, and Scarlett Johansson.

They discuss the idea of viewing this film as coming of age story vs a holocaust story, Elsa's depiction as a Jew in hiding with agency, their love for Yorkie, and so much more!

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2584384

Trailer - https://youtu.be/tL4McUzXfFI

Follow Becky Braunstein on Twitter - https://twitter.com/BeckyFromAlaska

Follow Becky Braunstein on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beckybraunstein/

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Oliver Twist (1948) w/ Jeffrey Wengrofsky

Thu, 04 May 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry are joined by writer, filmmaker, and festival curator Jeffrey Wengrofsky to discuss the 1948 version of “Oliver Twist” directed by David Lean and starring Sir Alec Guinness, John Howard Davies, and Robert Newton.

The discuss the grotesque depiction of Alex Guiness' Fagin and how it reinforces harmful Jewish stereotypes, trace how the film’s plot fits into a Christian redemption narrative, and consider the choices made by this adaption as they compare to the 20+ versions that have appeared onscreen.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0040662/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/oXkQGI_Pn0k

Follow Jeffrey Wengrofsky on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/les.syndicat

Learn more about Jeffrey's work - http://www.humansyndicate.com/

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Keeping the Faith w/ Phil Iscove

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry are joined by Film and TV writer, producer and podcaster Phil Iscove of Podcast Like It’s to discuss Edward Norton’s 2000 directorial debut “Keeping the Faith,” starring Norton, Ben Stiller, and Jenna Elfman.

They marvel at the unabashed depiction of religion and Jewish practice from a major studio release, discuss the tension between modernity and tradition within religion, and make some unexpected picks for their respective “most Jewish scenes” in the movie.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0171433/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/OABeT9MNtDw

Follow Phil Iscove on Twitter - https://twitter.com/pmiscove

Follow Phil Iscove on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pmiscove/

Listen to Podcast Like It's... - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-like-its/id1316214754

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Glamour & Gender in 'Pretty Woman' with Karina Longworth | Jews on Film

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry are joined by film writer and podcaster Karina Longworth of You Must Remember This to discuss Gary Marshall's 1990 film "Pretty Woman" starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere.

They cover the transactional way Edward sees those in his life, trace the characters’ evolution across the film, imagine what a "Pretty Woman" streaming series would look like in 2023, and discuss Jason Alexander's depiction of Phil Stucky, a (negatively) coded Jewish character.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0100405/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/2EBAVoN8L_U

Follow Karina Longworth on Twitter - https://twitter.com/KarinaLongworth

Follow Karina Longworth on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/karinalongworth/

Join the You Must Remember This Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/KarinaLongworth

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Hail Caesar w/ Josh Weiss

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by Josh Weiss, Author of "Sunset Empire," to discuss the 2016 Coen Brother's film "Hail Caesar,” starring Josh Brolin, George Clooney, and Alden Ehrenreich.

They cover the film's Jewish casting and depiction of communist writers, and delve into the history and context of the HUAC and Hollywood Ten. They also unpack the iconic focus group scene, featuring a very sarcastic Rabbi, and creatively ponder Hobie Doyle's possible connection to Moses.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0475290/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/kMqeoW3XRa0

Follow Josh Weiss on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/joshuahweiss/

Follow Josh Weiss on Twitter - https://twitter.com/JoshuaHWeiss

Buy "Sunset Empire" on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Sunset-Empire-Josh-Weiss/dp/1538719479

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Babel w/ Rabbi David Kasher

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by Rabbi David Kasher, author of ParshaNut, to discuss the 2006 film Babel, directed by Alejandro Iñárritu.

They discuss the film's relationship to the Biblical Tower of Babel story, and how both explore themes of language, miscommunication and being a fish out of water. They also consider the film’s depiction of the ways war and industry can impact people all around the globe.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0449467/

Trailer - https://youtube.com/watch?v=yDNa6t-TDrQ

Get the ParshaNut book - https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1610274644/alanchildress-20/

Listen to Best Book Ever - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/best-book-ever/id1588788530

ParshaNut Blog - https://parshanut.com/

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

OZYQSoFhQFFKElnGebDS

Image of Victory w/ Dinah Leffert

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome comedian and actor Dinah Leffert to discuss "Image of Victory," their first Hebrew language film of the podcast! The 2021 film was directed by Avi Nesher and stars Joy Rieger and Amir Khoury.

They celebrate the film’s depiction of Jewish life on the kibbutz as a melting pot of world cultures, examine the film’s ideas on the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion, and uncover the many meta choices Nesher makes in casting a filmmaker as his protagonist.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14556392/

Trailer - https://youtube.com/watch?v=YQtlGWtFpc0

Follow Dinah Leffert on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DinahLeffert

Connect with Jews on Film online:

The Big Lebowski w/ Julie Sugar

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by writer Julie Sugar to discuss 1998’s cult favorite “The Big Lebowski,” directed by the Coen Brothers and starring Jeff Bridges, Julian Moore, and John Goodman.

They delight in the film’s use of Yiddish and deep Jewish cuts, compare The Dude’s suffering to that of the Biblical Job, and consider the film’s depiction of Walter’s reverence for the laws and restrictions of his Jewish faith.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118715/

Trailer - https://youtube.com/watch?v=cd-go0oBF4Y

Follow Julie on Twitter - https://twitter.com/juliesugar

Connect with Jews on Film online:

The Exorcist w/ Oliver Park & Hank Hoffman

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by director Oliver Park and writer/producer Hank Hoffman of the new film "The Offering," to discuss the 1973 horror classic "The Exorcist," directed by William Friedkin and starring Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Max Von Sydow, and Jason Miller.

They consider the differences in the way Jewish and Christian horror are presented onscreen, explore the tension between science, psychology, and spiritual faith, and discuss the importance of character depth and universal trauma in creating a truly scary horror film.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0070047/

Movie Trailer - https://youtube.com/watch?v=jyW5YXDcIGs&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE

Rent "The Offering" on YouTube - https://youtube.com/watch?v=CyKNhAeRN6E&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Funny Girl w/ Yasmine Esther

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry welcome Yasmine Esther, Social Media Educator on Jewish Identity and Intra Community Issues, to discuss the 1968 musical "Funny Girl" directed by William Wyler and starring Jewish icon Barbara Streisand.

They discuss the way the film portrays Jewish life without tokenizing it, uncover how Fanny uses language and comedy to reclaim laughter from the world of Broadway, and find comfort in the familiarity of a roast beef sandwich and some chopped liver.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0062994/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/qzOFC4XiqL0

Yasmine’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/yafa.yasmine?igshid=YWJhMjlhZTc=

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Heartburn w/Sonya Sanford

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry welcome writer, cook and podcast co-host of "Food Friends" Sonya Sanford to the pod to discuss the 1986 film "Heartburn" directed by Mike Nichols, written by Norah Ephron, and starring Meryl Streep and Jack Nicholson.

They make the case for the film's supremely Jewish relationship with food, discuss the way the film censors some of the Jewishness from the lives of its real-world inspirations Carl Bernstein and Nora Ephron, and extol the comforts of eating a warm bowl of rice pudding on Passover and all year round.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film's "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091188/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/k79DDjvl9vE

Food Friends Podcast - https://www.foodfriendspodcast.com/

Sonya’s Website - https://www.sonyasanford.com/

Connect with Jews on Film online:

The Vigil w/ JD Lifshitz

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome producer JD Lifshitz to the pod to talk about the 2019 film The Vigil. They cover what JD doesn’t always like about “Jewish” movies, share behind-the-scenes stories from the making of the film, talk about how trauma affects the characters depicted in the film, and think of ways this movie could possibly be more Jewish!

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film’s "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10793644/

Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsMcckth7oU

If you're in Los Angeles, go check out The Vigil at The New Beverly Cinema in January:

Jan 07- https://thenewbev.com/program/january-7-the-vigil-midnight-show/

Jan 14 - https://thenewbev.com/program/january-14-the-vigil-midnight-show/

Jan 21 - https://thenewbev.com/program/january-21-the-vigil-midnight-show/

Jan 28 - https://thenewbev.com/program/january-28-the-vigil-midnight-show/

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Mr. Saturday Night w/Jen Stewart (Re-Release)

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 12:10:00 +0000

[originally aired July 7th 2022]

In this exciting season two premiere, Harry and Daniel are joined by Jen Stewart of the Borscht Belt Tattler podcast to discuss "Mr Saturday Night" starring and directed by Billy Crystal.

Jen explains why she chose the film, her connection to the Borscht Belt, and even surprises Harry and Daniel with a pop quiz on famous Jewish comedians and their real Hebrew names!

Borscht Belt Tattler Podcast

IMDB summary

Connect with Jews on Film online:

The Fabelmans w/ Esther Kustanowitz

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry welcome writer and podcaster Esther Kustanowitz to discuss Steven Spielberg’s autobiographical 2022 film The Fabelmans, starring Michelle Williams, Gabriel LaBelle, and Paul Dano.

They discuss the role Sammy’s Jewishness plays in isolating him from his peers, how his parents’ interests pushed him towards the technical and artistic sides of filmmaking, and how his role as director engendered a sense of emotional detachment throughout the different stages of his young life.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film’s "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14208870/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/a673B0JInwM

Esther’s Links

Check out The Bagel Report Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bagel-report/id1487559377

Follow Esther on Instagram - https://instagram.com/estherkustanowitz

Follow Esther on Twitter - https://twitter.com/estherk

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Enemies: A Love Story w/Shawn Levy

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel & Harry welcome film critic, author, and podcaster Shawn Levy to discuss Paul Mazursky's 1989 film Enemies: A Love Story, starring Ron Silver, Anjelica Huston, Lena Olin, and Malgorzata Zajaczkowska.

They discuss what differentiates the experience of the Jewish immigrant to America in the early 20th century, analyze the film’s exploration of survival through children, what’s so special about fruit compote, and track how Herman’s 3 wives represent his connection to his past, present, and future.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film’s "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097276/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/a2CExCFMSak

Shawn's Links

Check out Shawn's books here - https://shawnlevy.com/books/

Follow Shawn on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shawnanthonylevy/

Follow Shawn on Twitter - https://twitter.com/shawnlevy

Connect with Jews on Film online:

The Producers w/ Danielle Solzman

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode, Daniel & Harry are joined by film critic Danielle Solzman to discuss 1967’s “The Producers,” directed by Mel Brooks and starring Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder.

They discuss how the film grapples with questions of how to joke about Nazis, marvel at the impressive musical numbers and choreography, and laugh along at the movies loud and brash comedy. As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film’s "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0105327/

Movie Trailer - https://youtu.be/z51xeox0Jlg

Follow Danielle on Twitter - https://twitter.com/daniellesatm

Check out Danielle’s blog Solzy At The Movies - https://www.solzyatthemovies.com/

Connect with Jews on Film online:

School Ties w/ Mark Oppenheimer

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode, Daniel & Harry are joined by writer and podcast host Mark Oppenheimer to discuss Robert Mandel’s 1992 film “School Ties,” starring Brendan Fraser and Matt Damon.

They unpack how the film represents widespread antisemitism as it existed at the time, debate the accuracy of its depiction of Jewish practice, and discuss how screenwriter Dick Wolf infuses a Law and Order type intensity into the film.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film’s "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0105327/

Movie Trailer - https://youtu.be/bGYOP55A59c

Mark's Links

Gatecrashers - https://www.tabletmag.com/podcasts/gatecrashers

Squirrel Hill: The Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting and the Soul of a Neighborhood - https://www.amazon.com/Squirrel-Hill-Synagogue-Shooting-Neighborhood/dp/0525657193/

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Young Frankenstein w/ Noah Segan

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry welcome Noah Segan, actor/director/writer of the film "Blood Relatives,” to the pod to discuss the 1974 Mel Brooks classic "Young Frankenstein."

They discuss themes of fate and repeating the sins of your ancestors, their love of genre films, and the way Mel Brooks embeds Jewishness into his homage of the classic monster film.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film’s "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Young Frankenstein IMdB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072431/

Young Frankenstein Movie Trailer - https://youtu.be/sO8g8VmFf0M

Check out Blood Relatives on Shudder

Follow Noah on Twitter - https://twitter.com/kidblue

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

Duck Soup w/ Benjamin Stuart Thompson

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are joined by Benjamin Stuart Thompson, a multi-venue director of stage, television, and film to discuss the 1933 Marx Brothers classic "Duck Soup."

Benjamin shares stories of his grandfather Arthur Sheekman, a writer on "Duck Soup" along with other Marx Brothers films.

They discuss the film's depiction of the brothers as "others" in the otherwise strait-laced nation of Freedonia. They also dive into the film’s gags, wordplay, and musical numbers, and observe how the Marx Brothers set the model that would inspire decades of Jewish humor.

As always, they close out the episode by ranking the film’s "Jewishness" in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Duck Soup on IMdB - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0023969/

Duck Soup Movie Trailer - https://youtu.be/9CEdb0sGfaI

Avanti Lab: https://www.avantilab.org/

Kosher Organic Ranchero: http://www.jewishlifetv.com/videos.php?id=11

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

After Hours w/ Nabil Ayers

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Daniel and Harry are back for season three of Jews on Film! In this season premiere they welcome Nabil Ayers - music industry entrepreneur, musician, and author to discuss Martin Scorsese's 1985 dark comedy "After Hours" starring Griffin Dunne, Rosanna Arquette, and Linda Fiorentino.

As always, they end the episode by ranking the film’s Jewishness in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088680/

Trailer - https://youtu.be/LQRawYZl-ls

Joe Frank's NPR Monologue that partially inspired "After Hours"- https://youtu.be/MIG636ri4r8

Check out Nabil’s book - My Life in The Sunshine

Connect with Jews on Film online:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jewsonfilm/

PJ’s “125 Greatest Jewish Movie Scenes” Article Series on The Forward

Booksmart w/Ginna Green & Lynn Harris

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In this season two finale of Jews on Film, Daniel and Harry are joined by Ginna Green and Lynn Harris, co-hosts of the podcast A Bintel Brief, to discuss 2019’s “Booksmart” directed by Olivia Wilde and starring Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein.

They uncover the coded Jewishness in some of its lead and side characters, debate whether the film’s structure is inherently Jewish or not, and make the case that the film represents in “Jews in the writers’ room.”

As always, they end the episode by ranking the film’s Jewishness in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

A Bintel Brief Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-bintel-brief/id1577539103

YouTube Trailer: https://youtu.be/VjGJm3wV5-I

IMDb Page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1489887/

Follow Lynn Harris on Twitter: https://twitter.com/harrislynn

Follow Ginna Green on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ginnagreen

The book that loosely inspired "Booksmart" : Kate and Mona in the jungle

BONUS: Rain Man on Dead Beat Film Society Podcast

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In this special episode, Harry and Daniel are guests of the Seattle-based Dead Beat Film Society podcast, joining them in a discussion of Barry Levinson’s Rain Man, starring Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman.

Tune in to hear their them chat about the way the film defies genre convention to deliver a moving, but realistic and measured portrayal of the central relationship. They further talk about the portrayal of disabilities onscreen and how that might be achieved today, why this might be one of Cruise’s best performances, and much more!

Listen to Dead Beat Film Society - https://deadbeatfilmsociety.libsyn.com/

Follow Dead Beat Film Society on Twitter - https://twitter.com/dbfilmsociety

The Long Goodbye w/Noah Rinsky

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode, Daniel & Harry welcome Noah Rinsky of @oldjewishmen to the pod to discuss Robert Altman's 1973 noir classic "The Long Goodbye,” starring Elliot Gould.

They cover Gould and Altman’s interpretation of novelist Raymond Chandler’s iconic detective Phillip Marlowe, coding him as Jewish in a way that distinguishes him from past onscreen portrayals. They further discuss the way the film uses the “saving the cat” device to draw sympathy to Marlowe, as well as how it investigates his inability to make sense of a morally gray Los Angeles in the early 1970s. Finally they question where Jewish gangsters go on Friday nights, and consider the utility of being a gangster and a mohel’s son.

As always, they end the episode by ranking the film’s Jewishness in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

YouTube Trailer: https://youtu.be/fAYheZweypk

IMDb Page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0070334/

Old Jewish Men: https://www.oldjewishmen.net/

Follow OJM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oldjewishmen/

Homicide w/Emil Stern

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode, Daniel and Harry welcome writer Emil Stern to discuss David Mamet’s 1991 film Homicide, starring Joe Mantegna and William H. Macy.

They delve into protagonist Bobby Gold’s journey as a “wandering Jew,” struggling to fit in with both his fellow cops and the Jewish family whose murder case he’s been tasked to solve. They further discuss the harsh language of Mamet’s script, and how it’s used to victimize everyone from the film’s cops to its Jewish characters.

As always, they end the episode by ranking the film’s Jewishness in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

Movie Trailer - https://youtu.be/P9-Q0ZRFk7g

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102048/

Follow Emil Stern on Twitter - https://twitter.com/emil_stern

A Clockwork Orange w/Nathan Abrams

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode, Daniel and Harry are joined by Professor Nathan Abrams, a professor of film studies at Bangor University in Wales and Jewish film scholar, to discuss Stanley Kubrick’s 1971 film A Clockwork Orange, starring Malcolm McDowell.

They discuss the film’s exploration of the relationship between power and authority, consider the Jewishness in its approach to free choice and accountability, and uncover the subtle allusions Kubrick makes in this, and the rest of the films, to the Jewishness of his upbringing.

As always, they end the episode by ranking the film’s Jewishness in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes. As a bonus, they conclude the discussion by ruminating on whether or not this film is “good for the Jews.”

Movie Trailer - https://youtu.be/T54uZPI4Z8A

IMDb- https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0066921/

Follow Nathan Abrams on Twitter - https://twitter.com/ndabrams

Nathan’s Books

Stanley Kubrick New York Jewish Intellectual - https://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/stanley-kubrick/9780813587110/

The New Jew in Film - https://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/the-new-jew-in-film/9780813553412/

The Plot Against Harry w/ PJ Grisar

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, Daniel & Harry are joined by PJ Grisar, Culture Writer for The Forward, to discuss the 1971 hidden gem "The Plot Against Harry," directed by Michael Roemer and starring Martin Priest as the eponymous Harry.

Listen along as they chronicle Harry’s ”teshuva” journey following his time in prison, dive into the authentic representation of a ‘70s New York Jewish community, and lose track of all the movie’s weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, and other Jewish celebrations.

As always, they end the episode by ranking the film’s Jewishness in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb Page

Movie Trailer

PJ Grisar on Twitter

The Heartbreak Kid w/ Esther Werdiger

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, Daniel & Harry are joined by Esther Werdiger, Art Director for Tablet Magazine, to discuss the 1972 classic comedy "The Heartbreak Kid," directed by Elaine May and starring Charles Grodin, Cybill Shepherd, and Jeannie Berlin.

Tune in as they identify within the film the hallmarks of 1970s New York Jewry, consider the film’s satirical take on the threat of Jewish assimilation, and debate the repulsiveness of getting an egg salad sandwich all over your face

As always, they end the episode by ranking the film’s Jewishness in terms of its cast & crew, content, and themes.

A Serious Man

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 13:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, Daniel & Harry discuss the 2009 anxiety-inducing film "A Serious Man," directed by the Coen Brothers and starring Michael Stuhlbarg. They touch on the meaning of Larry's dreams, explore the challenges of being logical in an increasingly illogical and unpredictable world, and unpack the cryptic messages and parables offered by the film’s 3 rabbis.

They wrap up the episode by serving up a 3 course meal rating of the Jewishness of the film, based on its cast & crew, content, and themes.

IMDb

SoCalled - "(Rock The) Belz"

Clueless w/ Rachel Rosenfeld

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 13:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode, Daniel and Harry welcome Rachel Rosenfeld, Executive Director of Mercaz Seattle to discuss the 1995 classic "Clueless," starring Alicia Silverstone as the iconic Cher. They consider the resonance of Cher’s embodiment of the Jewish American Princess (JAP), break down the California traffic one might face to go to a party all the way in the valley, the timelessness of the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and more!

IMDb

YouTube trailer

Mercaz Seattle

The Survivor

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 13:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode, Daniel and Harry head outdoors for a special in-person recording where they discuss Barry Levinson's 2021 film “The Survivor.” They consider the movie’s themes of assimilation and survival, its cinematic depiction of the concentration camps, and its attempts at presenting scenes of violent boxing without seeming exploitative. As always, they end the episode by rating the film’s Jewishness.

Make sure to follow on instagram @jewsonfilm and TikTok @jewsonfilmpod and don't forget to rate and review the podcast!

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Trailer

Talia & Ensemble de Kol Aviv - Mayn Shtetele Belz

Inglourious Bastards w/ Yechiel Hoffman & Jodi Berman

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 13:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, Daniel and Harry are joined by the stars of the 2 Movie Jews podcast Yechiel Hoffman and Jodi Berman. Together, they discuss Quentin Tarantino's 2009 World War II epic "Inglourious Basterds," starring Brad Pitt, Melanie Laurent, and Christoph Waltz.

Tune in as they explore the film's theme of hiding from one's past, discuss the representation of powerful Jews on screen, and consider the film as a testament to the power of storytelling.

Trailer

IMDb

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This is Where I Leave You

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, Daniel and Harry chat about Shawn Levy's "This is Where I Leave You," starring Jason Bateman, Jane Fonda, and a whole cast of recognizable (if not very Jewish...) faces.

Listen in as they dive into how the film explains Shiva to its broad audience, reflect on their own relationships with their siblings, and analyze how the characters rethink the trajectories of their lives when faced with death.

As always, they end the episode by ranking the film in terms of its Jewishness.

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?=v=fH0cEP0mvlU&ab_channel=WarnerBros.Pictures

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1371150

Mr. Saturday Night w/ Jen Stewart

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 13:00:00 +0000

In this exciting season two premiere, Harry and Daniel are joined by Jen Stewart of the Borscht Belt Tattler podcast to discuss "Mr Saturday Night" starring and directed by Billy Crystal.

Jen explains why she chose the film, her connection to the Borscht Belt, and even surprises Harry and Daniel with a pop quiz on famous Jewish comedians and their real Hebrew names!