Review: A rabbi and an older student find reciprocity in the playful ‘Between the Temples’

As a seasoned cinephile with over three decades of movie-watching under my belt, I must say that “Between the Temples” is one of those rare gems that comes along once in a blue moon. This charming comedy by Nathan Silver has an undeniable charm and wit that’s reminiscent of the great Hal Ashby’s work, but with a distinctly modern twist.

Have you come across a joke involving a tone-deaf cantor and an ex-music teacher entering a bar? In Nathan Silver’s delightful comedy “Between the Temples,” the humor lies in their unexpected bond, but the movie itself is also full of laughter.

For over fifteen years, writer-director Silver has been producing personal, artisanal character studies (this is his ninth full-length project). However, “Between the Temples,” a collaboration with C. Mason Wells, seems to be his most expansive work yet, despite being an indie film shot on 16mm. This time around, he’s brought in well-known actors like Jason Schwartzman and Carol Kane, along with his regular cast members (including his mom, Cindy). It appears that this film is Silver’s best chance at achieving mainstream success.

“Between the Temples” is a hilarious comedy exploring themes of religion and unusual friendships, reminiscent of the Jewish version of “Harold and Maude.” The story revolves around an unexpected bond between an older woman and a younger man. While they share some similarities with Hal Ashby’s 1971 film, the resemblance isn’t primarily due to age differences. Instead, it lies in the heartwarming tale of two eccentric individuals finding comfort in each other as they explore their shared spiritual journey.

As a movie enthusiast, I’ve been captivated by the tale of Ben (Schwartzman), a cantor struggling with his inability to sing, who finds himself in a heart-wrenching predicament following the tragic loss of his wife. In a moment of unbearable grief, I found myself lying helplessly before an oncoming semi-truck, pleading for it to pass, overwhelmed by my immobilizing sorrow that seems to have me confined at home under the watchful eyes of my two formidable Jewish mothers (Caroline Aaron and Dolly de Leon).

In a peculiar yet heartwarming fashion, Ben and Carla’s friendship blossoms. It’s clumsy, endearing, and oddly charming, mirroring the vibrant, spontaneous directing style of Silver. The flexible cinematography by Sean Price Williams darts, stretches, and zooms with a lively, improvised vigor throughout the appealing group of characters. Silver and editor John Magary seamlessly edit and combine the footage into a humorous adventure that frequently veers into the dreamlike and bizarre, influenced by reminiscence, dreams, alcohol, and occasionally drugs. The homemade essence of the film is echoed in the various manual filmmaking techniques used, such as split diopter shots, optical wipes, and irises.

In “Between the Temples,” Silver skillfully captures the characteristic atmosphere and empathetic feel of an Ashby production – a blend of authentic humanity, heightened reality, and a unique perspective. However, this work is undeniably Silver’s own style, characterized by humor, anxiety, and most notably, compassion.

Schwartzman and Kane share an unusual, sometimes comical chemistry that borders on the unbelievable, effortlessly fitting into Silver’s group cast. Robert Smigel takes on the role of Ben’s boss, who is also a rabbi, with his daughter Gabby (exceptionally played by Madeleine Weinstein) being fiercely courted by Ben’s mothers for marriage to their son. De Leon, known from “Triangle of Sadness,” shines once again and seems to dominate any setting she enters, whether it’s a synagogue fundraiser or hosting a Shabbat dinner with the precision and firmness of a naval drill. In “Between the Temples,” she appears as natural as breathing while managing events at the synagogue or conducting a Shabbat dinner like a well-oiled machine.

In this movie, Silver’s perspective on spirituality revolves around community and tradition. Characters Ben and Carla embark on a journey, seeking solace through their religious beliefs. Ben aims to rediscover his voice, while Carla yearns to tap into an aspect of her heritage she never could as a child. They ponder life’s greater mysteries – Ben even seeks guidance at a Catholic church – but the film isn’t about escaping what’s immediately surrounding them. Instead, their quest leads them to find meaning in their shared connection with each other.

“Between the Temples,” skillfully made with a unique perspective, is a movie worth watching again simply to immerse yourself further in its unusual tempo and spirit. With a tune all its own, it may well be that no other film this year feels as genuine and delightful.

Katie Walsh is a Tribune News Service film critic.

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2024-08-23 20:31