Watch Finding Babel

Finding Babel is a documentary film released in 2015, directed by David Novack. The film revolves around the life and work of writer Isaac Babel, who is considered one of the most innovative and influential authors of the 20th century. The film takes the audience on a journey through Babel's life - from his upbringing in a wealthy Jewish family in Odessa to his rise as a prominent writer during the Soviet era. The filmmakers explore the contradictions and complexities of Babel's life, as well as the political and social context in which he worked.

The main protagonist of the film is Babel's grandson, Andrei Malaev-Babel. Andrei, who is a writer and actor himself, sets out to uncover the mysteries of his grandfather's life, seeking to understand the man behind the literature. Along the way, Andrei encounters a cast of characters who share their own perspectives on Babel and his work. From scholars to descendants of Babel's contemporaries, the film offers a diverse range of voices.

The film is also made up of archival footage, dramatic reenactments, and readings from Babel's short stories. These elements are woven together to create a rich tapestry of storytelling, allowing the audience to experience Babel's world in a multi-dimensional way.

Throughout the film, Babel's writings are highlighted as the lens through which to understand his life. His stories and essays are shown to be deeply informed by the political and cultural struggles of the era, as well as his own personal experiences. The film argues that Babel's work is a testament to the power of literature to capture the complexity of the human experience.

Finding Babel also explores the legacy of Babel's life and work. The film demonstrates the enduring relevance of his writing, as well as the ongoing controversies surrounding his relationship to the Soviet regime. Through Andrei's journey, the film ultimately suggests that Babel's story is one of a man who refused to be silenced, even in the face of political repression.

The film features interviews with a number of well-known writers and scholars, including Jonathan Lethem and Larry Wolff. In addition, the film is narrated by actor Liev Schreiber, who also serves as executive producer.

Overall, Finding Babel is a compelling and nuanced portrayal of a complex figure in world literature. The film offers a thoughtful exploration of the importance of storytelling and the complexities of history. Through a combination of personal reflection and archival research, the film illuminates the life and work of Isaac Babel in a way that is accessible and engaging.

Finding Babel is a 2016 animated movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4 and a MetaScore of 65.