Kosher Love

Kosher Love released in 2017 navigates its audience through the enigmatic and intricate world of Orthodox Jewish dating. Yisroel Bernath features as himself, a steadfast and dedicated Rabbi who also doubles up as an unorthodox matchmaker in the close-knit and tightly woven Jewish community of Montreal. Directed by Evan Beloff, this unique and insightful documentary seeks to shed light on the fascinating practices of arranged marriages, and the contemporary nuances and challenges it encounters in the twenty-first century.

At the heart of Kosher Love is Rabbi Yisroel, often known as 'The Love Rabbi,' who has dedicated his life to bringing people together. His match-making skills are not drawn from extensive databases, algorithms or EI compatibilities, but instead, they are built on a foundation of human communities, faith, tradition, and the enduring principles of understanding and listening. Through his duties, Rabbi Yisroel travels an intriguing labyrinth of human longings and dreams, exploring a broad range of interests, aspirations, and values which contribute to the special spiritual spectacle that is Kosher Love.

As the film unravels, the audience is introduced to a diverse set of characters - each one unique in their personal journey towards finding love. Through these characters, the film explores the spectrum of personalities within the orthodox Jewish community – the hopeful romantics, the pragmatic individuals, and those disillusioned by the process. The trials and tribulations of arranged courtships take centre stage as these individuals navigate the delicate whirlpool of this age-old matchmaking tradition.

One of the strengths of Kosher Love is how it opens a window into Ramah Bernath and Yisroel's life – thus presenting their relationship as a living testimony of the harmonious matrimony achieved through a guided courtship. This exploration ignites numerous sincere, moving, and humorous moments, providing delightful entertainment while aiding in dispelling myths and stereotypes about the Jewish orthodox community. The film strives to portray how, contrary to popular perceptions, arranged marriages do not entirely rule out romance. Instead, they propose a different approach to love - one that is premeditated and carefully thought out.

A challenge that the protagonists encounter is balancing the evolving desires of a younger generation and the maintenance of long-lasting traditions. The dichotomy is both fraught and heartening at times, creating a sensitive viewing experience that begs the question: can old and new coexist, or must one succumb to the other?

What distinguishes Kosher Love from other documentaries in this genre is its ability to find humor amidst emotional moments, thereby establishing a connection with a broad audience base. As a viewership, we come to understand that life is indeed composed of bittersweet moments where the tension between the comical and the serious is never far apart. Moreover, the film ensures that its audience learns and appreciates the values that form the core of orthodox Jewish cultural traditions, which includes a deep reverence for love and the institution of marriage.

Kosher Love balances its narrative with a clever mix of personal interviews, group discussions, and Rabbi Yisroel's moving narration. Beyond dating and marriage, the documentary gives us a sneak peek into the Jewish orthodox family life, dining traditions, the celebration of Shabbat, and the community dynamics.

An intriguing amalgamation of romance, tradition, faith, and humor, Kosher Love is an enchanting documentary that unearths the complexities and realities surrounding Orthodox arranged relationships. It does so while uplifting the spirit, stirring a laugh, and warming the viewer's heart. Evoking an empathetic bond with its characters, this film makes for a riveting watch, transcending religious boundaries and resonating with hope, love, and the pursuit of happiness.