Through the wall

"Through the Wall" is a 2016 Israeli romantic comedy that provides a refreshing take on the narrative surrounding love, faith and personal commitment.

The film was directed by Rama Burshtein, who is noted for her authentic and profound representation of the Orthodox Jewish community. She continues to explore this theme in "Through the Wall," starring Noa Koler, Amos Tamam, and Oz Zehavi in pivotal roles.

Noa Koler portrays Michal, the protagonist of the film who is a 32-year-old Orthodox Jew. Michal operates a mobile petting zoo business and is eager to settle down in life. In her early thirties, she is considered a spinster by her community's standards, which usually expect early marriages. However, she is willing to wait till she finds the man who truly loves her.

The story takes a dramatic turn when Michal's fiancé calls off their wedding just a month before the big day. With the sudden turmoil in her personal life, Michal is understandably devastated. However, she decides not to cancel the wedding ceremony and chooses to trust God to provide her with a suitable groom in time for her pre-booked wedding date. She believes that God has chosen a perfect life partner for her, and he will appear in the stipulated 22 days.

"Through the Wall" is largely a whirlwind of Michal's faith, desperation, optimism, and resilience and offers a detailed glimpse into the lives, traditions, and cultural eccentricities of the Orthodox Jewish community.

Amos Tamam plays the role of Shimi, the owner of the wedding venue who is also struggling with his own personal life issues. Shimi’s character adds another layer of complexity to the story and forms an interesting subplot in the narrative.

Meanwhile, Oz Zehavi brings a charismatic flavor to the screen as Yos, a famous pop star who Michal meets during her search for a husband. His unconventional character brings a distinct contrast to Michal's orthodox world.

The performances of the lead artists stand out remarkably, with Noa Koler's portrayal of Michal's faith, determination, and emotional turmoil being particularly praiseworthy. She beautifully embodies her character's journey, capturing her vulnerability, tenacity, quest for love, and unshakeable belief in God.

Amos Tamam and Oz Zehavi also deliver commendable performances in their respective roles. Amos’ portrayal of Shimi as a sensitive and understanding person amplifies the emotional quotient of the film while Oz, as Yos, provides a refreshing change of pace and perspective.

"Through the Wall" can be considered a romantic comedy due to its depiction of Michal's humorous and sometimes absurd encounters as she searches for a husband. But the movie's core revolves around Michal's spiritual journey and her unyielding faith which forms the crux of the film.

This film expertly weaves the diverse themes of faith, love, hope, and determination to create an engaging narrative. Rama Burshtein's astute direction brings together the strengths of the story and the performances of the stellar cast, allowing the film to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Moreover, the cultural setting and traditions of the Orthodox Jewish community add texture to the plot, making it stand out from your average romantic comedy. The film not only makes you laugh and pulls at your heartstrings, but it also makes you contemplate the significant impact of faith and belief systems on people's lives.

The film was acclaimed for its unique storyline and phenomenal performances, winning several awards at various film festivals around the globe. Noa Koler’s performance, in particular, earned her significant recognition and awards.

"Through the Wall" is a beautifully crafted tale that portrays the journey of a woman's faith and her pursuit of love against all odds. It is a movie that transcends the confines of a typical romantic comedy and provides a deeply introspective and spiritual viewing experience. It is a heartwarming and poignant film that leaves a lasting impression on its viewers. This exceptional cinematic piece is definitely a must-watch for those interested in cultural exploration, narratives that feature empowered women, and stories of faith and belief.