The Cakemaker 2018

As the somber news of Oren’s tragic passing spreads across Berlin, Thomas, a gentle German baker, finds himself engulfed by a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. His secret relationship with the late Israeli man had been characterized by stolen moments and hushed promises. Yet, when Oren goes silent, Thomas is left grappling with the remnants of their secret encounters. The harsh reality dawns on him as he learns of Oren’s unfortunate accident in Israel.

In search of solace and a new beginning, Thomas makes his way to Jerusalem, where he is inevitably drawn to the comforting atmosphere of Anat Nachmias’s café. Initially, Thomas is barred from utilizing his culinary skills due to concerns regarding kosher certification, but his exceptional talent eventually wins over Anat, who is wrestling with the pain of her husband’s infidelity. As they bond over shared stories and moments of vulnerability, Thomas becomes intricately involved in Anat’s life, including her challenges as a grieving widow and devoted mother.

In the shadows, Motti, Anat’s brother-in-law, harbors doubts about Thomas’s motivations, his concerns heightened by rumors regarding Oren’s supposed betrayal. Amidst this emotional chaos, Anat wrestles with her yearning for comfort and the urge to delve into Oren’s belongings, seeking understanding about his life and their troubled relationship. It is during one such exploration that she uncovers a German list, directing her to the café where Thomas works.

As the truth gradually surfaces, Anat confronts Thomas with the shocking revelation that Oren had intended to leave her for him. The crushing gravity of this revelation weighs heavily on both Anat and Thomas, leaving them ensnared in a web of guilt, sorrow, and regret. In the fallout, Anat discovers that her kosher certification has been revoked, rendering all her catered goods worthless. Her world continues to deteriorate as she restarts Oren’s second phone, only to be inundated with heartfelt voicemail messages from Thomas, each serving as a bittersweet reminder of their hidden love.

As the ramifications of this betrayal sink in, Motti compels Thomas to exit Jerusalem, declaring that he will never be permitted to return to Israel. With a shattered heart and burdensome sorrow, Thomas departs, leaving behind a cascade of unanswered questions and unfulfilled emotions. The destinies of these two intertwined individuals, bound by their secret love and the deceptions they navigated, remain precariously uncertain, shadowed by the lingering presence of Oren.

Over time, Anat’s once humble café flourishes, gaining popularity that rivals more established venues, all while lacking the cherished kosher seal. Simultaneously, Anat finds herself increasingly attracted to the vibrant life in Berlin. A serendipitous moment arises when she spots Thomas departing his café, a fleeting encounter that feels almost meant to be. As she watches him fade into the distance, Anat’s expression transforms, illuminated by a profound introspection, suggesting that perhaps the universe is silently affirming her newfound sense of peace and fulfillment.