Film Review: 'Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem'

The new film, "Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem," is a study in frustration. The entire movie takes place in a small courtroom where an Israeli woman is trying to obtain a divorce. Her ordeal will will drag on for over five years.

Viviane's story is not a true account but rather an accurate depiction of Israeli law. There is no such thing as a civil marriage or divorce. Only rabbis can "legitimate" a union or its dissolution. But there's an additional catch. The husband has to consent. The odds are not stacked in Viviane's favor.

But Viviane (the outstanding Ronit Elkabetz) is as relentless as those attempting to thwart her efforts. Witnesses offer testimony on behalf of Viviane as well as her husband, Elisha (the intimidating Simon Abkarian). Some accounts are ridiculous, others hilarious. Most importantly, Viviane falls victim to this Kafkaesque, kangaroo court run by bigoted bullies.

Ronit Elkabetz (in the lead role) and brother, Shlomi Elkabetz write and direct this emotionally charged expose on rabbinical courts. In a supposedly enlightened country, it's unnerving to discover how horrific married women are treated. The potential ramifications of such an archaic law are endless. In Viviane's particular situation there was an absence of physical abuse but what if?

The performances in "Gett" are nothing short of superb. Casting had to be spot on given the lack of any action taking place outside of the courtroom. This is a film that relies heavily upon body language. The leering and sneering between husband and wife, wordlessly speak volumes. The noticeable absence of scoring also lends vast authenticity to the subject matter at hand. 

As infuriating as "Gett" is (a woman seated behind me commented that she didn't know how much more she could take), it manages to get under your skin. Whether male or female, anyone in their right mind can ascertain that this Israeli law is hideous.

"Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem" can be described as a head shaker, an endless bad dream and a brilliant piece of filmmaking. It points out that there can be a very fine line between love and hate. If there's a lesson to be learned ... perhaps, a woman might want to seek a divorce elsewhere.