Watch The Cousin

The Cousin is a 2017 Israeli crime comedy-drama film directed by Tzahi Grad, who also stars in the film alongside Ala Dakka and Osnat Fishman. The film follows the story of Naftali (Tzahi Grad), a middle-aged car dealer who is in debt to his brother-in-law, Benny (Moshe Ivgy). Benny offers to clear Naftali's debt if he goes to Germany to bring back a antique Jewish menorah that belonged to their family before the Holocaust. Naftali is hesitant to go to Germany, but eventually agrees and embarks on a journey that will take him through Germany and Poland and lead him to discover family secrets and hidden motives.

The Cousin is a unique blend of genres, mixing elements of comedy, drama and crime thriller. At its core, the film is a character study about Naftali, a flawed and complex character who finds himself in way over his head. Tzahi Grad's performance as Naftali is fantastic, conveying the character's inner turmoil and desperation with a subtlety that is both nuanced and hilarious. He manages to strike a balance between the comic and the dramatic, bringing a depth and texture to the character that elevates the film beyond the standard comedy or drama.

The film's humor is derived from both Naftali's predicament and his interactions with other characters. The scenes between Naftali and Benny are particularly amusing, as Benny is a tough and intimidating figure who seems to enjoy tormenting Naftali. The dynamic between the two characters is reminiscent of classic comedy duos, with Naftali as the bumbling and hapless one and Benny as the straight man.

The Cousin's crime elements are subtle but effective. As Naftali progresses on his journey, he encounters a series of shady characters and dangerous situations that add tension and suspense to the story. These moments are expertly woven into the fabric of the film, never feeling gratuitous or out of place. They serve to remind us of the seriousness of Naftali's mission and the stakes involved.

The film's drama elements come not just from the crime story, but from the larger themes of family and identity that run throughout the film. Naftali is forced to confront his past and his relationship with his family, particularly his brother-in-law Benny. As he learns more about his family's history and the secrets that were kept from him, he begins to question his own sense of self and his place in the world. This deeper exploration of character and identity gives the film a weight and depth that is not often seen in comedies or crime thrillers.

The Cousin is also visually stunning, with beautiful cinematography that captures the beauty and the darkness of the landscapes Naftali travels through. The film is shot in a way that is both realistic and cinematic, using natural light and wide shots to create a sense of immersion and authenticity. The result is a film that is both visually engaging and emotionally resonant.

Overall, The Cousin is a remarkable film. It is a testament to Tzahi Grad's skills as a filmmaker and an actor, and an example of how comedy, drama, and crime can be successfully combined to create a truly unique and captivating viewing experience. Whether you're a fan of any of these genres or simply interested in a well-crafted and engaging film, The Cousin is definitely worth your time.

The Cousin is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.