Earlier today I took part in
a private screening of a new film titled
WRESTLING JERUSALEM. It is based on a one
person
play (the
marvelous actor was present for a post-film
discussion) which had a four week, sold out
off-Broadway run. It is one of the most
powerful films I have ever seen as it explores a
wide variety of Jewish and Palestinian
perspectives on Jerusalem.
While it isintended in a special way for Jewish
audiences it is also very well suited for
discussions among Jews, Palestinians and anyone
else committed to reconciliation in
Israel/Palestine. It has even been used with
corporate executives in achieving
reconciliation in a business setting. For use in
schools there is a study guide available. It
runs some 90 intense minutes. One of its unique
features focuses on the role of trauma in the
perpetuation of political conflict.
I think it deserves Oscar
nomination. As I know from being in a film that
won a
Tribeca Film Festival Award and was
subsequently nominated for an Oscar that such
recognition opens the doors to widespread
distribution which this film deserves.