Kadosh 2000

In the intriguing drama Kadosh, the complex landscape of Haredi society is vividly depicted through its multifaceted characters and deeply moving narratives. The story begins with Meir (Yoram Hattab), a devoted young Talmudic scholar, who starts his day with gratitude during prayers, particularly thankful for not being born a woman. At first, Meir’s marriage to Rivka (Yael Abecassis) seems ideal; however, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that the couple’s life is overshadowed by the pain of childlessness after ten years of marriage. Desperation soon drives Meir to seek counsel from his father, the Rabbi of their community in Jerusalem, who shockingly advises him to divorce Rivka due to her perceived failure to fulfill her role as a woman.

As Meir’s union with Rivka deteriorates, it is increasingly clear that he prioritizes societal expectations over the emotional welfare of his wife. The impact of this decision is devastating, leaving Rivka emotionally shattered and eventually prompting her to leave their life. Meanwhile, Rivka’s younger sister, Malka, is coerced into a loveless marriage with Yosef, despite her heart belonging to Yaakov, a rock singer who has distanced himself from the religious community. Malka’s predicament escalates when Yosef’s emotional distance pushes her towards a one-night encounter with Yaakov; upon returning home, she is met with a torrent of verbal and physical abuse from her husband.

As Meir embarks on his new life with a second wife, he makes an impulsive visit to Rivka during Purim, a day typically filled with festivities and merriment. His unexpected arrival ignites tension between them, leading Rivka to withdraw emotionally. The situation intensifies when Malka, escaping her troubled marriage, seeks refuge in Rivka’s arms. The film reaches a profound and surreal climax when Rivka appears to Meir in his bed, her grief and longing intertwining with an overwhelming fatigue. As she collapses beside him, it becomes painfully clear that her emotional scars have stifled her spirit.

The story concludes with Malka, left alone and heartbroken amidst the bustling city of Jerusalem, symbolizing the tragic ramifications of societal pressures and the delicate nature of the human experience.