Past Life

Past Life is the evocative story of two sisters who delve into the dark past of their father's life during World War II, directed and written by Avi Nesher. The film was theatrically released in 2016 and features a poignant cast including Nelly Tagar, Joy Rieger, and veteran Israeli actor Doron Tavory in the main roles. The premise of the movie is heavily influenced by Dr. Baruch Milch’s real-life memoir, "Can Heaven Be Void?", told through the lens of raw emotion, suspense, and a heartfelt pursuit of truth.

The movie opens in Berlin, 1977, where ambitious young composer Sephi Milch (Joy Rieger) is showcased performing in a choral concert. Once the performance concludes, an older woman who identifies herself to be a Polish Holocaust survivor angrily accuses Sephi's father, Baruch Milch (Doron Tavory), of being a murderer.

This unexpected encounter leads Sephi and her fiercely independent, and frequently rebellious, sister Nana (Nelly Tagar) to pursue the hidden beats of their father's past. Baruch, a gynecologist and an emotionally fraught Holocaust survivor, has always been reticent about his experiences during the horrific period. His stoic silence ignites questions and curiosity in his daughters, leaving them with no option but to step into the misty realms of the past and confront the realities of the time their father has been silent about all his life.

The two sisters, vastly different in temperament, yet tied together by their mutual commitment towards the pursuit of truth, embark on a profound journey toward understanding their family’s history. As the story unfolds, we get to experience a synoptic view of the past blighted by the war and the present, scarred by the past.

Joy Rieger delivers an effortlessly emotive performance as Sephi, combining a mix of vulnerability and strength that’s truly engaging. Nelly Tagar as the headstrong and restless Nana contrasts Sephi with her audacious character, and together, they form a dynamic partnership pushing the narrative forward.

Doron Tavory's portrayal of Baruch Milch is particularly noteworthy. His careful interpretation of a man imprisoned in the haunting memories of his past reeks with anguish and repressed emotions, making him a silent yet expressively eloquent character.

Past Life is not only a historical drama; it entwines elements of suspense with the return to traumatic history. The echoing melody of Sephi's music provides a stirring accompaniment to the narrative. The dramatic tension scales up as more and more layers of the past are uncovered, eventually piling up to a crescendo that leaves the audience reflecting on the harsh realities of the Holocaust, while also acknowledging the strength, resilience, and tenacity of the human spirit.

It's not your typical war movie; it’s an exploration of the aftermath of the war and the phantom pain it leaves. The movie impeccably works around the themes of guilt, redemption, and the resilience of the human spirit. It's also a film about women: their courage, their pain, their power, and their relentless pursuit of justice.

The research, attention to detail, and authenticity make Past Life an intelligent and gripping film. Avi Nesher's direction coupled with Michel Abramowicz's eloquent cinematography foster an atmosphere that resonates with the audience long after the credits roll on this cinematic masterpiece.

In the backdrop of its intricate narrative, Past Life sheds light on the difficulty and importance of forgiving past sins, individual or collective, and moving forward. The film highlights the complexity of truth and the personal cost it carries while maintaining its historical authenticity.

As a captivating story about family, about the lingering echoes of the past and its potent impact, Past Life is an emotional narrative that delves into the human aspect behind the historical events. Rich performances, spellbinding storytelling, and deftly crafted direction render this movie as a poetical tale of redemption, resilience, and love. Past Life stands as an illuminating exploration into the pursuit of truth, a testament to the power of human resilience and family bonds.