America
Amerika
Directed by:
Ofir Raul GraizerScreenplay:
Ofir Raul GraizerCinematography:
Omri AloniComposer:
Dominique CharpentierCast:
Oshrat Ingadashet, Michael Moshonov, Ofri Biterman, Moni Moshonov, Irit Sheleg, Evelyn Kaplun, Ruba Blal, Seumas F. SargentPlots(1)
Eli is a former champion swimmer from Israel now teaching in Chicago. When he learns that his estranged father has died, he dutifully returns to Tel Aviv to sort out his father’s affairs. There he reconnects with his childhood friend and former swimming partner Yotam, who lives with his fiancée Iris. There is a palpable, secret attraction between the two men they are loath to discuss in this lyrical and understated love triangle. (Menemsha Entertainment)
(more)Reviews (1)
On the surface, America is an enjoyable relationship drama about a love triangle that hinges on compelling actors and a strong starting point. In this respect, however, we can easily predict events, and the subliminal interpretation, which incorporates political themes into the game, appears to be more significant. Along with Eli, the United States arrives in Israel and causes a disaster (albeit indirectly) from which the local counterpart is rehabilitated for the rest of the film. This interpretation is not supported by the tragic portrayal of Eli's character or the sad ending, but if valid, it would at least partially elevate an otherwise mediocre drama. America is a safe emotional bet with a stylistic component that is not very distinctive and a mixture of various motifs, including hints of homosexuality and coping with a painful upbringing. After the award-winning The Cakemaker, this is a step backwards for Graizer.
()