Anna Daniels
“Between the Temples” – A Refreshing Comedy
The movie “Between the Temples” directed by Nathan Silver kicks off with a poignant blast from the shofar, setting the tone for this year’s most anxious comedy. The story revolves around Ben Gottlieb, played by Jason Schwartzman, a cantor struggling with a crisis of faith after losing his wife, voice, and will to live.
Living with his overbearing mothers in upstate New York, Ben feels out of place since his wife’s tragic death. As his mothers attempt to get him back into the dating scene, Ben’s dry humor shines through as he navigates his new reality.
Struggling to sing at his first Shabbat service, Ben leaves the synagogue only to find himself in a series of unexpected encounters. From diving into mudslides at a bar to reconnecting with his music teacher Carla Kessler, played by Carol Kane, the story takes amusing yet profound twists.
Ben and Carla, both mourning the loss of their spouses, form an unlikely bond that transcends grief. Their shared journey through laughter and pain as they rediscover their Jewish roots adds depth to their evolving friendship.
“Between the Temples” captures the unique chaos of its characters and their evolving relationships to religion and each other. It’s a behavioral comedy that beautifully explores the intricate dance between faith, desire, and circumstance.
Jason Schwartzman and Carol Kane deliver captivating performances, portraying Ben and Carla’s evolving dynamic with raw authenticity. The supporting cast, including Robert Smigel and Madeline Weinstein, further enrich the narrative with their compelling portrayals.
