Between the Temples

August 20th, 2024

MOVIE: BETWEEN THE TEMPLES

STARRING: JASON SCHWARTZMAN, CAROL KANE, DOLLY DE LEON, ROBERT SMIGEL

DIRECTED BY: NATHAN SILVER

AMovieGuy.com’s RATING: 3 STARS (Out of 4)

RATED: R
RUN-TIME: 1 H 51M

The title Between the Temples offers a clever play on words, reflecting both the story’s focus and its deeper themes. This film centers on a cantor who loses his singing ability and faces a crisis in his Jewish faith- often running from his responsibilities at the temple, while characters are not always using the space between their ears. Directed by Nathan Silver, it embodies the essence of a classic independent film—think screwball comedy, shot in upstate New York, with 16mm cinematography and capturing the spontaneity of life.

Jason Schwartzman delivers an outstanding performance as Ben Gottlieb, a man mourning the loss of his wife who unexpectedly forms a bond with his former music teacher, Carol Kessler (Carol Kane). Carol, eager to become Ben’s Bat Mitzvah student, initiates a connection that starts innocently but soon evolves into a deeper, unexpected companionship.

Silver and co-writer C. Mason Wells embraces screwball comedy by delving into Jewish traditions, the unpredictability of life, and the distinctiveness of each character. Supporting roles add to the humor and complexity: Ben’s overprotective mothers, Meira (Caroline Aaron) and Judith (Dolly De Leon); the meddlesome Rabbi Bruce (Robert Smigel) and his daughter Gabby (Madeline Weinstein), whom he hopes to set up with Ben. As these characters intrude into Ben’s life, he finds solace in Carol’s company. The film balances humor with moments of painful cringe and poignant sadness, creating a genuine and relatable dynamic.

While not every segment hits the mark—some parts feel stretched and drawn out—its strengths lie in the stellar performances by Schwartzman and Kane. Schwartzman brings his trademark Wes Anderson charm, while Kane showcases her knack for impromptu humor, such as her memorable line about reading the Torah as if she has a popcorn kernel stuck in her throat. Between the Temples is a big bucket of comedy and sentimentality, offering a thoughtful reflection on the quirky characters that populate our lives.

Between the Temples will be playing in select theaters on Friday, August 23rd, 2024. 

3 STARS

Written by: Leo Brady
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