In honor of Israel’s Independence Day, which begins tonight, we rounded up some of our favorite Israeli films that have been released within the past five years. From comedy to chilling thrillers to psychological dramas, there’s something for everyone on this list (except maybe your young kid).
Here’s what we chose:
1. The Flat (on YouTube)
This is a 2012 documentary that follows a filmmaker who finds a strange and surprising secret about his grandparents when he begins to empty out there apartment after his grandmother’s death. This is a riveting tale about a controversial friendship, nationality, and hidden family dynamics.
2. Zero Motivation (on Amazon)
This 2014 film is a quirky Israeli comedy about young women stationed in a remote army base. It is a deep glimpse into female friendships and won Best Narrative Film at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2014.
3. A Borrowed Identity (on Amazon)
This 2015 movie is based on Sayed Kashua’s book, “Dancing Arabs,” which is a coming of age story based on his childhood as an Israeli Arab and being sent to a private school where he was the only Arab student. Eyad, the main character, tries to fit in with his Jewish classmates and Israeli society–the story follows his friendship with a boy with muscular dystrophy and his first love.
4. The Kindergarten Teacher (on YouTube)
This 2015 film is a creepy and subdued thriller about a kindergarden teacher’s obsession with a 5-year-old student, Yoav, who seems to exhibit a strange poetic talent. Nira, the teacher, pushes boundaries from innocent to something far more scary.
5. Big Bad Wolves (on YouTube)
This 2013 film is a tantalizing tale of murder and revenge.
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