Movie of the Day: Bliss (2024) by Shemi Zarhin

Link to watch: https://watch.eventive.org/2025aajff/play/67df3a2c0609e75702bc4dd8 (available till 9th of May, Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival)

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32525008/

Link Review: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/hemda-director-israeli-film-backlash-1235997205/

About movie: http://www.unitedking.co.il/Movies/All_English

Detailed Summary: Bliss (original title: Hemda) is a poignant Israeli drama directed by Shemi Zarhin, known for films like Aviva My Love and The Kind Words. The story centers on Sassi (73) and Effi (50), a married couple navigating the complexities of aging, financial strain, and past relationships. Their lives are disrupted by the arrival of two young men: Omri, Sassi's free-spirited grandson, and David, a former student of Effi's who reenters her life, stirring unresolved emotions. Set in the Galilee during winter, the film delves into themes of love, loyalty, and the challenges of maintaining intimacy amidst life's unpredictabilities. ​

Plot Summary: Sassi and Effi lead a life filled with love and humor, despite their age difference and the burdens they carry, including debts from Sassi's estranged son and Sassi's impotence following surgery. Their routine is upended when Omri returns from Europe, seeking guidance, and David reappears, bringing with him memories and tensions from Effi's past. As these relationships unfold, the couple must confront their own insecurities and the evolving dynamics of their marriage. ​

Director's Vision: Shemi Zarhin crafts a narrative that explores the intimate struggles of a couple facing the twilight of their lives. Through nuanced storytelling and character development, Zarhin examines how love endures and transforms over time, highlighting the resilience required to face personal and relational challenges. ​

Themes:

• Aging and Intimacy: The film portrays the physical and emotional aspects of aging within a long-term relationship.

• Family and Responsibility: It delves into the obligations and complexities of familial ties across generations.

• Past and Present: Characters grapple with unresolved issues from their pasts that impact their current lives.

• Resilience and Adaptation: The story emphasizes the strength required to adapt to life's unforeseen challenges.​

Key Success Factors:

• Authentic Performances: Sasson Gabay and Assi Levy deliver compelling portrayals of a couple facing life's trials.

• Relatable Narrative: The film's exploration of universal themes resonates with a broad audience.

• Cinematic Realism: Set against the backdrop of the Galilee, the setting enhances the film's emotional depth.

• Critical Acclaim: Premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and featured in various Jewish film festivals. ​

Summary Short: Bliss is a heartfelt exploration of love, aging, and the enduring strength of human connection amidst life's complexities.​

Awards and Nominations:

• Nominated for three Israeli Academy Awards. 

• Official selection at the Toronto International Film Festival 2024. 

• Opening film at the Calgary and Santa Barbara Jewish Film Festivals. 

Critical Reception:

• The Film Experience: Praised the film for its insightful portrayal of a couple confronting unexpected challenges later in life. 

• RogerEbert.com: Highlighted the film's exploration of familial disruption and the pursuit of contentment. ​

Reviews:

• IMDb User Reviews: Described as a beautiful film about love and the burdens it entails, touching on relationships, family, and loyalty. ​

Production: Filmed in the Galilee region of northern Israel, capturing the serene yet poignant atmosphere that complements the narrative.​

Production Companies:

• Israeli Films ​

Sales Companies:

• Israeli Films ​

Distribution Companies:

• United King Films

Release Dates:

• World Premiere: Toronto International Film Festival 2024. 

Why to Recommend This Movie:

• Emotional Depth: Offers a profound look into the complexities of long-term relationships.

• Cultural Insight: Provides a window into Israeli life and familial structures.

• Artistic Merit: Showcases Shemi Zarhin's adept storytelling and direction.​

Why to Watch This Movie:

• Relatable Themes: Addresses universal experiences of love, aging, and family dynamics.

• Stellar Performances: Features acclaimed actors delivering authentic and moving portrayals.

• Thought-Provoking Narrative: Encourages reflection on personal relationships and life's unexpected turns.​

What Movie Trend Film is Following: Aligns with contemporary cinema's focus on intimate, character-driven stories that explore the nuances of human relationships.​

What Big Social Trend is Following: Reflects a growing interest in narratives that address the challenges and experiences of aging populations, emphasizing the importance of intergenerational understanding and support.​

Final Verdict:

Bliss (Hemda) is a nuanced exploration of love, aging, and the complexities of long-term relationships. Shemi Zarhin's direction, combined with compelling performances by Sasson Gabay and Assi Levy, offers a heartfelt portrayal of a couple navigating personal and familial challenges. While some critics have noted the film's multiple subplots may dilute its emotional impact, others appreciate its rich tapestry of themes and character dynamics. Overall, Bliss stands as a testament to the resilience of love amidst life's unpredictabilities.​

Recommendations for Filmmakers:

• Embrace Complexity: Don't shy away from portraying multifaceted characters and relationships; authenticity resonates with audiences.

• Balance Subplots: Ensure that additional storylines enhance rather than detract from the central narrative.

• Highlight Cultural Nuances: Incorporate cultural and societal contexts to add depth and relatability to the story.​

Recommendations for the Movie Industry:

• Support Mature Narratives: Invest in stories that explore the experiences of older demographics, offering diverse perspectives.

• Promote International Cinema: Encourage the distribution and accessibility of foreign films to broaden audience horizons.

• Facilitate Festival Platforms: Provide opportunities for films like Bliss to gain visibility through international film festivals.​