Yossi & Jagger 2003

In the snow-draped mountains close to Lebanon, Commander Yossi (Ohad Knoller) commands his troops with a serene authority that hides the emotional storm within. His deeply passionate relationship with his second-in-command, Jagger (Yehuda Levi), adds an electrifying layer to their lives—one that rivals the fervor of rock legends, often finding them engaging in playful lip-sync renditions of Mick Jagger’s classic tunes. Amidst the chaos of military life, their romance serves as a cherished refuge, offering moments of joy and intimacy in a desolate world ravaged by war.

However, their fragile happiness is disrupted by the arrival of a colonel, accompanied by two female soldiers, thus introducing a complex twist to their lives. One of the newcomers, the mysterious Yaeli (Aya Koren), is irresistibly attracted to Jagger, while simultaneously dismissing the affections of Ofir (Assi Cohen). Despite her attentions, Jagger’s heart remains steadfastly committed to Yossi, further entrenching the emotional stakes of their situation.

The colonel’s presence ignites a series of pivotal events, not least a treacherous nighttime ambush that stirs underlying tensions. As Yossi grapples with the looming dangers, tragedy strikes when Jagger is grievously injured, collapsing as Yossi desperately cradles him. In this heart-wrenching moment, Yossi finally finds the words to convey the profound love he harbors.

The aftermath of Jagger’s death is palpably felt during the somber gathering at his family’s home, where the weight of grief settles heavily on everyone present. Jagger’s mother, in her sorrow, confuses Yaeli for her son’s beloved, reflecting on the many things she never knew about Jagger—including his favorite song, “Bo” by Rita. Only Yossi remembers it intimately, triggering a flood of bittersweet memories that resonate with the aching melodies of Ivri Lider’s rendition, reminding us all of the raw beauty and tragic reality of love and loss.