Director: Nathan Silver
Writers: Nathan Silver, C. Mason Wells
Production Companies: Fusion Entertainment, Ley Line Entertainment
Runtime: 1 hour 51 minutes
Language: English
Country of Origin: United States
Release Date: August 23, 2024
Story
The dark comedy “Between the Temples” examines the relationship between faith, memory, and the surprising ways in which the past can influence the present. The narrative centers on Jason Schwartzman’s character, Ben Gottlieb, a cantor at a synagogue in New York who is going through a serious spiritual crisis. Ben’s life takes an unexpected turn when Carla Kessler (Carol Kane), his eccentric and once-loved grade school music teacher, re-enters it. Ben is having difficulty connecting with his spiritual duties and is questioning his place in the world.
Now in her seventies, Carla has made the decision to become a Bat Mitzvah in order to reestablish a connection with her Jewish heritage. Ben is dragged into a whirlwind of preparations that push his boundaries—both personally and professionally—when she insists that he be her cantor. Ben’s strict adherence to tradition and Carla’s chaotic, frequently unconventional way of living clash, leading the two to form an unlikely friendship that compels them to face their pasts and reassess their futures.
Ben’s mother Judith (Dolly De Leon), who objects to Carla’s influence, and Rabbi Bruce (Robert Smigel), who pushes Ben to uphold the status quo, complicate things. Ben has to choose between holding on to the safety of his known world and taking a risk by juggling his strained relationships with his family, his duties at the synagogue, and Carla’s erratic demands.
Plot Summary
In the 2024 comedy-drama “Between the Temples,” Ben Gottlieb portrays a cantor experiencing a severe spiritual crisis. His life takes an unexpected turn when Carla Kessler, his old elementary school music teacher, reappears in it as his new adult Bat Mitzvah student instead of a mentor. The reconnection forces Ben to confront unresolved feelings and reflect on the choices that have shaped his life. Carla brings back memories of the past, and Ben has to overcome his doubts and find a newfound enthusiasm for his faith and his place in the community. With a blend of humor and poignant moments, the film deftly explores themes of identity, spirituality, and the complexity of human relationships.
Cast
Jason Schwartzman as Ben Gottlieb
Carol Kane as Carla Kessler
Dolly De Leon as Judith Gottlieb
Caroline Aaron as Meira Gottlieb
Robert Smigel as Rabbi Bruce
Madeline Weinstein as Gabby
Matthew Shear as Nat
Lindsay Burdge as Darcy
Pauline Chalamet as Leah
Jaden Waldman as Bar Mitzvah Boy
Cindy Silver as Yael
Simona Sickler as Nerdy Girl
