Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem

 

Gett – the Trial of Viviane Amsalem 2014

• Director: The Elkabetz siblings
• Based on the novel: no
• Cast: Ronit Elkabetz, Simon Abkarian, Menashe Noy
• Personal “oh yeah him/her” reaction, i.e. have seen this actor in:
• Ronit Elkabetz – The Band’s Visit
• Simon Abkarian – Casino Royale
• Why? Sounded good
• Seen: 10 January 2023                

 Viviane Amsalem (Elkabetz) has been trying for years to be granted a divorce by a religious court of rabbis, evidently the only way to get a divorce, called ‘gett’, in Israel. Her husband (Abkarian) refuses. Patriarchal and fanatical religious oppression has her trapped.

Most of the film takes place in the courtroom at the many, many hearings where Viviane’s lawyer (Noy) tirelessly and skilfully argues in her behalf. But the husband still refuses.

It’s absolutely riveting. 

4 ½ * of 5