Broken Mirrors

"Broken Mirrors" is a thought-provoking and intense drama movie from Israel, directed by Aviad Givon and Imri Matalon, which premiered in 2018. The film boasts an outstanding cast led by Shira Haas, Yiftach Klein, and Renana Raz, whose gripping performances captivate audiences.

The film's storyline revolves around a family and its complex relationships within. Shira Haas, known for her role in "Unorthodox," plays the lead character, Ariella, a seventeen-year-old schoolgirl. Ariella is navigating her way through the typical tribulations of adolescence, her personal conflicts elevated by the complicated dynamics at home. From her strict, perpetually unimpressed father, Gideon, portrayed by Yiftach Klein, to her resentful and emotionally suppressed mother, Rahel, depicted by Renana Raz, Ariella's life is an intricate web of expectations and disappointments.

Shira Haas’s role as Ariella brings to life the journey of a teenage girl, who, amidst her struggles, is desperately fighting to assert her individuality in an environment that seeks to constantly stifle it. Ariella is disciplined, strong, independent, often rebelling and challenging her father's stern authority, establishing a deeply layered character persona and one of the primary sources of tension in "Broken Mirrors."

Yiftach Klein adeptly takes on the role of the overly disciplined military man, Gideon, who cannot help imposing his rigid military regulation onto his family life. Gideon’s character, whilst often unsympathetic in his approach to family life, isn’t wholly unsympathetic as viewers are given insight into his own internal struggles of fear and control, his military discipline presenting as more of a shield preventing any emotional vulnerability.

Renana Raz portrays Rahel, the seemingly submissive mother who is restrained by her husband's authoritarian rule. Her resilience, sorrow, and attempts to keep peace in the family create a poignant part of the narrative. The family is eventually forced to address their tensions as external events begin to threaten their fragile stability.

Set in the backdrop of a strict, military-obsessed household, "Broken Mirrors" delves into the unspoken, each character wrestling with their personal demons whilst mirroring the culture of a society that often espouses strength and discipline over emotion and vulnerability. The title itself serves as a metaphor for the shattered perceptions and identities that each character grapples with, creating a powerful allegory of a broken society that values appearances over authenticity.

"Broken Mirrors" does an incredible job in illustrating the toxic impact of imposed societal structures on personal freedom and individualism. Each character's struggle and resistance raises pertinent questions about the effects of living under rigorous rules and chronicles universal issues of identity, freedom, self-expression, and familial relationships.

The film is both heartrending and sensitive, offering viewers a graphically real portrayal of the struggles each of the characters undergoes. It invites the audience to ponder the effects of toxic masculinity, military discipline, and how their unrealistic expectations can distort relationships within tight-knit units such as a family.

Visually, the film doesn't lag either, as each frame helps to construct a mood that highlights the thematic tension. With scenes that are both intense and understated, the directors craft a narrative that is evocative and impactful.

The film is not only compelling because of its narrative, but it also stands out for its strong performances. The ensemble cast, especially Shira Haas, immerses themselves in their characters, creating authentic portrayals that amplify the emotional heft of the narrative.

In conclusion, "Broken Mirrors" is a thought-provoking and emotional exploration of familial relations, societal structures, and personal identity. Its layered narrative coupled with haunting performances and profound symbolism make it a worthwhile cinematic experience and a remarkable addition to Israeli cinema. For viewers seeking a deep dive into an emotionally raw yet beautifully crafted narrative, "Broken Mirrors" is a definitive must-watch.