Menashe sits in a low lit diner across from a woman. She’s friendly and lighthearted, trying to engage him in shallow conversation so as to find a way toward common ground, but he’s not having any of it.
As he sits with the woman he was set up with by a matchmaker (A common tradition in Hasidic Jewish community), Menashe makes it clear that he’s is only present for the sake of his young son, Rieven. Following the death of his wife, tradition bars Menashe from raising his son on his own, and Rieven is set to live with his stringent uncle, who can’t see Menashe as a contributive, responsible person, let alone parent. This outside doubt fails to hinder Menashe’s deep rooted determination to gain custody of the person who maintains the most faith in him.
Director Joshua Z Weinstein’s feature directorial debut starts out feeling like a documentary. The focus on such a traditionally secluded New York community will make viewers feel like they’ve gained limited access into the every day going ons of a famously fascinating culture, one that’s often only explored for its perceived “extremities.” Filmed almost entirely in Yiddish with Borough Park, Brooklyn serving as the backdrop, the realism of the setting has the potential to isolate some viewers not as familiar with Hasidic culture, however the story of Menashe serves as a piece of evidence to how love transcends faith, language, and culture.
In one of the most high tension scenes of the film Menashe confronts his brother in law as to why he’s never had any pity for him, and why he feels he’s more fit to raise Rieven than Menashe. His brother in law tells him how he simply doesn’t have any respect for him. It;s this honesty and authenticity that defines Menashe. The dialogue never beats around the bush or drags viewers along but remains instead rather straightforward. A prime example of this in the film is seen in the dynamic between the central father and son. The relationship isn’t portrayed as flawless, however viewers will find it hard not to grow attached to their interactions. Actor Menashe Lustig really carries their scenes together, and makes “Menashe” such an easy character to love and root for.
Weinstein has created a classic tale of family and unconditional love that manages to surpass all cultural barriers. Menashe is a must see for anyone looking for an underrepresented take on family and faith in film.
The film opens July 28.
