Greetings again from the darkness. It seems wrong (and a bit cheap and obvious) to use the word "unorthodox" to describe this latest movie from writer-director Nathan Silver (STINKING HEAVEN, 2015) and co-writer C. Mason Wells. However, that description fits … even if a bit too perfectly. The word also accurately describes the look and camera work from cinematographer Sean Price Williams, using harsh close-ups for immediacy and a filtered soft look for connection.
We first meet Ben (Jason Schwartzman) as his moms, Meira (Caroline Aaron) and Judith (Dolly De Leon) are trying to set him up with a plastic surgeon. Their efforts come mostly from a good place – helping him get through the grief of his wife dying, yet they would also like him to get his life back together and move back out of their basement. It's been a hard year for Ben, and his grief along with questioning his faith and the fairness of life have left him unable to fulfill the singing portion of his work as a Cantor at the Temple.
Rabbi Bruce (Robert Smigel, former SNL writer) promises to help Ben get through this, but Ben's trip to the local bar result in his getting punched in the face and reuniting with his elementary school music teacher, Carla Kessler O'Connor (the great Carol Kane). It turns out Carla's husband died and she's also dealing with being forced out of her music teaching job after 42 years. From here, things only get more interesting between Ben and Carla.
Joining his mitzvah class, Carla wishes to experience the Bat Mitzvah she never had as a 13-year-old girl. Rabbi Bruce reluctantly approves, and Ben begins the unusual process. Clearly, he's attracted to her lust for life, while she understands his inherent sadness when he states, "even my name is in the past". Rabbi Bruce also tries to set up Ben with his daughter Gabby (Madeline Weinstein), whom he describes as "a mess". Gabby has excellent comedic timing with car locks.
Things get convoluted for all involved, even as Ben and Carla grow closer … even agreeing that sometimes the brain feels like it's having a heart attack. Emotions (and confusion) hit a peak during the most awkward Shabat dinner on record. All characters have their moment to shine.
Jason Schwartzman delivers one of his most reserved performances to date. We can feel his grief turn to hope. However, it's Carol Kane who brings the most interesting aspects of the film alive. Ms. Kane, with her trademark hair and recognizable voice was a true star early in career with memorable performances in CARNAL KNOWLEDGE (1971), THE LAST DETAIL (1973), DOG DAY AFTERNOON (1975), ANNIE HALL (1977), WHEN A STRANGER CALLS (1977), "Taxi", THE PRINCESS BRIDE (1987), and SCROOGED (1988). It's a treat to see her have a chance to shine again.
When one mentions Jewish movie comedies, it's Mel Brooks and early Woody Allen that tend to come to mind. It's possible some might be offended at Mr. Silver's clever approach here, but I prefer to note the dual meaning of this film's title … call it 'unorthodox' and leave it at that.
Opening in theaters on August 23, 2024
WATCH THE TRAILER
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