What is a synagogue? A place that plays a central role in Jewish culture, one that extends far beyond its religious function. A film archive of all synagogues in Manhattan provides an opportunity to reflect on Jewish life and community today, its worries and fears, and a worthwhile future.
Almost two million Jews live in the New York metropolitan area. They form the largest Jewish community outside of Israel and make up over ten percent of the world's Jewish population. There are 70 synagogues on the island of Manhattan alone, the facades of which are the subject here of 16mm film footage and photographs. They bear witness to the history of Jewish life in the city, dating back as it does to the 17th century. In all shapes and sizes, the buildings adapted to the ongoing renewal of the city and remain lively meeting places for the community today. At the same time, the surveillance cameras and security forces at the synagogues highlight the growing danger of anti-Semitism and the resulting insecurity and isolation. Instead of hiding however, Amir Moverman advocates for being seen and heard, as well as showing solidarity with other marginalised communities.
Text: Dominique Ott-Despoix
English: Peter Rickerby
Credits
original title Reflections In Synagogue
international title Reflections In Synagogue
german title Reflections In Synagogue
JFBB section Documentary Film Competition
country/countries US
year 2024
duration 70
Amir Moverman
BIO Amir Moverman (DAAD German Academic Exchange Program Fellowship Recipient) is a filmmaker and multidisciplinary artist born and raised in Manhattan, New York City. He is an MFA student in the Maurice Kanbar Institute of Film and Television at NYU. Reflections in Synagogue is his first feature film. He is a poet and a connoisseur of tea. Previous directorial credits include The (Re)Birthday of Sam--In Her 25th Year (2023), Wax Castles of Love (2020), and the upcoming A Familiar Kind of Limbo (2024).
