Watch Golda's Balcony

Golda's Balcony is a fascinating and poignant film that delves into the remarkable life of former Israeli Prime Minister, Golda Meir. Starring Valerie Harper, the movie takes us on a journey through the tumultuous times of the 20th century, from the early years of Meir's life to her rise to power as one of Israel's most influential leaders.

The story begins in 1973, as Golda Meir reflects on her life while preparing for the Yom Kippur War. The war serves as a backdrop to Meir's memories, as she revisits key moments of her life, including her upbringing in Russia, her emigration to America, and her eventual move to Palestine. Through these flashbacks, we get a sense of the incredible tenacity and bravery that Meir displayed throughout her life, as well as the personal sacrifices she made in order to help establish the state of Israel.

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Golda's Balcony is the way in which it humanizes Meir. Through Harper's masterful portrayal, we see not only the fierce political leader, but the vulnerable woman behind the public persona. We witness Meir's struggles with guilt, self-doubt, and fear, and gain a newfound appreciation for the incredible strength and resilience she possessed in the face of adversity.

Aside from Harper's powerful performance, much of the film's success can be attributed to the script. Written by William Gibson, the script deftly weaves together personal anecdotes with historical context, painting a rich and nuanced portrait of a remarkable woman. The dialogue is sharp and engaging, providing insight into Meir's motivations and innermost thoughts.

Director Scott Schwartz also deserves credit for his expert direction. The film is shot entirely on a single set, with Harper delivering her monologues directly to the camera. Despite this minimalistic approach, Schwartz keeps the action engaging throughout, using a variety of camera angles and lighting techniques to keep the audience's attention focused on the story.

Throughout the film, we get glimpses of Meir's relationships with other notable figures, including David Ben-Gurion and Richard Nixon. These interactions add another layer of depth to the story, highlighting the complicated web of politics and diplomacy that Meir navigated throughout her career.

Overall, Golda's Balcony is an engrossing and impactful film that offers a glimpse into the life of one of Israel's most important and influential leaders. Whether you're a history buff, a political junkie, or simply a lover of powerful storytelling, this movie is not to be missed.

Golda's Balcony is a 2007 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 62.