Watch Lemale et ha'halal

Lemale et ha'halal, also known as Fill the Void, is a 2012 drama film that was directed by Rama Burshtein. The movie explores the religious and cultural practices and traditions of a Hasidic Jewish community in Israel, emphasizing on the importance of marriage and tradition. The film follows the story of Shira, an 18-year-old Jewish girl who is about to marry a promising young man from her community. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when her older sister, Esther, passes away during childbirth, leaving behind a grieving husband and a newborn son. According to tradition, the husband cannot raise the baby alone, and Shira is asked to marry him and become the baby's mother.

As the plot unfolds, the film takes viewers on a journey through the Hasidic way of life, delving into the dynamics of family, love, loss, and the choices that arise when one's faith is challenged. The film presents a thoughtful and intimate portrayal of the lives of Hasidic Jews, and explores the tension between tradition and personal desires.

At the forefront of the film is Hadas Yaron's portrayal of Shira. She delivers a powerful and convincing performance, showcasing the complexities of her character's emotions and her struggles to reconcile her family's traditions with her own desires. Yiftach Klein, who plays the role of Yochay, the grieving husband, also gives an impressive performance, expressing his grief and his desire to fulfill his duty according to his faith.

The film's cinematography beautifully captures the intimate moments within the Hasidic community, and the emotional turmoil that the characters go through. The close-ups and rather static shots help create a sense of claustrophobia, which emphasizes the sense of confinement that comes with adherence to strict religious practices.

Overall, Lemale et ha'halal is a beautifully crafted film that offers a glimpse into the world of Hasidic Jews. It highlights the complexities of individual desires and choices within the realm of religious tradition, and challenges viewers to ponder the relationship between belief and personal autonomy. The film is a testament to the power of following tradition but also the strength with which one can break free from tradition and create their own path.