Watch A Tramway in Jerusalem

A Tramway in Jerusalem is a 2018 Israeli drama film directed by Amos Gitai. The movie revolves around the diverse passengers of the Jerusalem tramway that runs through the bustling and iconic city. The film takes place over the course of one day, and it follows the individuals and their different stories that intertwine during the ride.

From an elderly woman who gets on the tram to seek her missing husband to a young Palestinian woman who's on her way to a job interview, and a French tourist who's visiting the Holy City, each of the characters reflects the eclectic nature of the city. The passengers' conversations and interactions reveal the cultural, religious, and linguistic diversity that makes Jerusalem a complex and vibrant city.

Among others, the film features the Israeli singer-songwriter Achinoam Nini (Noa) as a young woman who reflects on her identity as an Israeli Jew and a peace activist. The acclaimed French actor Mathieu Amalric also appears as a photographer who accompanies his Jewish grandmother to visit her former home in East Jerusalem. Meanwhile, the Palestinian actress Lamis Ammar plays a young woman who faces obstacles due to the political situation in the city.

The film explores the idea of common humanity and the shared experiences that bring people together, despite their differences. It also tackles political and social issues that affect the daily lives of the inhabitants of the city, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the tensions between different religious communities, and the challenges of coexistence.

The director Amos Gitai, who is known for his politically charged films, brings his signature style to this movie. He combines a documentary-like approach with a fictional narrative to create a realistic and immersive portrayal of Jerusalem and its people. The film's visual style is minimalist, and the camera is mostly stationary, capturing the tram's passengers as they move through the city.

A Tramway in Jerusalem is a compelling and thought-provoking film that offers a fresh and nuanced perspective on one of the most complex and contested cities in the world. It presents a mosaic of stories that celebrate the richness and diversity of Jerusalem's culture and people, while also acknowledging the challenges and conflicts that exist within it. The movie is a significant and timely contribution to the ongoing conversation about the role of art in promoting understanding and tolerance in divided societies.

In conclusion, A Tramway in Jerusalem is a captivating and insightful film that showcases Jerusalem's complexity, diversity, and beauty. The movie's talented cast and skillful direction by Amos Gitai create a compelling and authentic portrait of a city that is both divided and united by its history, culture, and people. It is a movie that will leave a lasting impression on its viewers and spark important conversations about the issues it raises.

A Tramway in Jerusalem is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.1.