Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
age 10+
A study of an intimate character set in an orthodox Jewish community.
Not present
What is the story?
Set in an orthodox Jewish community in New York, MENASHE tells the story of a widower fighting for custody of his son. Menashe (Menashe Lustig) is a perpetually unhappy salesman who believes he should be allowed to take care of his son Rieven (Ruben Niborski). Unfortunately for Menashe, the local rabbi disagrees, ruling that he must remarry in order to regain custody.
Is it good?
A moving drama, steeped in realism and performed entirely in Yiddish, this film is loosely based on the real-life story of lead actor Lustig. Directed by Joshua Z Weinstein, Menashe has a clear affection for New York’s Orthodox Jewish community, where the film is set. The director sticks to the documentary style, never points fingers, nor makes judgments. However, he is not afraid to stick to certain practices and traditions according to modern standards. Lustig’s lead performance is both beautifully understated and authentic. Interestingly, not only was Lustig not a professionally trained actor, but he claims he had never even been to a movie theater before taking on the role. It was a gamble that paid off, as Lustig’s naturalistic performance brings depth and honesty to the film, allowing the first-time actor to approach the material in his own unique way without any cinematic influence or prior training.
Talk to your kids about…
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Families can discuss how New York’s Orthodox Jewish community is portrayed Menashe. Are you familiar with this community? Did you learn something new? How did some traditions look seen through today’s prism?
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What character strengths did Menashe show during the film? Why are they important traits? Can you think of a time in your life when you demonstrated these strengths?
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The main actor, Menashe Lustig, had never even been in a movie before this film, let alone acted. Does that surprise you? Why, or why not?
Did we miss something about diversity?
Research shows a connection between children’s healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in the media. That’s why we’ve added a new “Different Representations” section to our reviews, which will be published continuously. You can help us help children