Watch Lemon Popsicle

Lemon Popsicle, released in 1978, is a coming-of-age comedy that focuses on the lives of three teenage boys who are navigating the complexities of adolescence in Tel Aviv. The trio, Benji (Yftach Katzur), Bobby (Jonathan Sagall), and Huey (Zachi Noy) are all in their final year of high school and have a deep desire to discover more about themselves and the world around them.

As the boys explore their newfound freedom, they encounter many obstacles and triumphs, all while trying to figure out what it means to grow up. The plot follows the trio as they encounter love and heartbreak, confront their fears and insecurities, and navigate social pressures and conflicts.

Benji is the group's self-proclaimed leader, a charming and confident young man who is determined to conquer the world, including the girls in his class. Bobby is his best friend, a shy and sensitive boy who often feels overshadowed by Benji's charisma but possesses a deep understanding of the emotional struggles of adolescence. Finally, there's Huey, the goofy and lighthearted member of the group who is always eager to make his friends laugh.

The boys spend much of their time driving around Tel Aviv on their beloved motorcycle, a vintage Yamaha that they've proudly dubbed "Lemon Popsicle." Their adventures take them to beach parties, dance clubs, and even a brothel, where they must quickly grow up and confront the realities of adulthood.

Intertwined with the boys' story is the budding romance between Benji and Nili (Anat Atzmon), a beautiful and mysterious girl who captures Benji's heart. As their relationship blossoms, the boys must confront their own feelings of jealousy and learn to navigate the complexities of love and desire.

The film also explores the challenges faced by the trio's parents, who are grappling with their own personal and professional struggles. Benji's father works as a taxi driver and is facing financial difficulties, while Bobby's mother is a successful businesswoman who has little time for her son.

Overall, Lemon Popsicle is a nostalgic and humorous look at the awkward and formative experiences of adolescence. Through its portrayal of the boys' struggles and triumphs, the film captures the essence of the teenage experience and the universal desire to find love, independence, and identity. The film's enduring popularity and cult status has led to several sequels and remakes, cementing its place as a beloved classic of Israeli cinema.