What Is The Chosen About?
The premise of The Chosen in 289 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a brooding, timber‑clad mansion where shadows linger long after sunset, the walls seem to breathe with forgotten whispers. The house itself feels like a character, its corridors winding through dimly lit rooms that echo with a palpable sense of dread. The atmosphere is thick with a quiet unease, where every creak of floorboards and flicker of candlelight hints at something unseen moving just beyond perception.
The young woman arrives at the estate seeking refuge from a life that has grown increasingly ordinary, only to find that the very refuge she craves is laced with an oppressive, unseen presence. As the days unfold, she becomes the focal point of a malign force that presses against the edges of her mind, threatening to dissolve the boundaries of who she has always been. The mansion, once a sanctuary, transforms into a labyrinth of psychological intrigue, each room reflecting fragments of a deeper, more sinister reality.
The film’s tone is a careful blend of gothic melancholy and unsettling psychological tension. Cinematography drapes the story in muted palettes, allowing the play of light and darkness to mirror the protagonist’s internal conflict. A subtle, lingering score weaves through the scenes, amplifying the feeling that something ancient and malevolent watches from the corners of the house, waiting for a moment of vulnerability.
Underlying the haunting visuals is an intimate battle for identity. The protagonist must confront the encroaching darkness that seeks to consume her very essence, all while navigating the thin line between fear and resolve. The suspense is less about external threats and more about the erosion of self, inviting the audience to wonder whether the true horror lies within the haunted walls or within the mind of the one they aim to protect.
What Happens in The Chosen?
The complete story of The Chosen, from the first scene to the last, in 717 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout.
Spoilers ahead
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York City, 1944. In a predominantly Jewish neighborhood, Reuven “Robert” Malter and Daniel “Danny” Saunders are two 15-year-old boys whose paths have never crossed until fate intervenes. Reuven, a bright and popular Modern Orthodox Jew, grapples with the impact of his mother’s death during the early years of the Holocaust nearly a decade ago. His father, David Malter, a Talmudic scholar and devoted Zionist, hopes to establish a Jewish homeland where they can live freely, away from the global persecution that has afflicted their people.
On the other hand, Danny is a Hasidic Jew, the eldest son of Reb Isaac Saunders, a revered Rabbi who migrated to the United States with his family and followers from Russia before the October Revolution of 1917. Unlike Reuven, Danny is trapped by the expectations of his faith, burdened with the prospect of succeeding his father as Rabbi, even though he harbors aspirations of becoming a psychologist—a dream he feels he cannot share. Despite his photographic memory and keen intelligence, he struggles with mathematics and feels confined by the traditions that dictate his life.
Their first encounter occurs during a heated softball game between their schools which turns into an unexpected spiritual duel. Danny’s aggressive batting style leads to a fateful incident where he accidentally shatters Reuven’s glasses, injuring his left eye. Following this accident, Danny makes a visit to the hospital where Reuven is recovering, offering an apology that marks the beginning of a profound friendship that transcends their different Jewish backgrounds. Reuven soon learns that Danny’s relationship with his father is largely devoid of emotional communication, where conversations only blossom during religious discussions. He also uncovers Danny’s secret desire to pursue psychology rather than the rabbinic path his father envisions.
As the events of World War II unfold and reach their conclusion in 1945, Reuven experiences a similar silence when he faces the disapproval of Reb Saunders after he expresses support for a secular Jewish state in Palestine, an idea vehemently opposed by the Hasidic community. Tension escalates when Reb Saunders forbids Danny from speaking to Reuven, even though Danny discreetly conveys his own limitations: “I won’t go against my father. I won’t!” In the wake of these events, Reuven must navigate his feelings of isolation, anguish, and anger after his father suffers a stroke and is hospitalized. He spends his time in introspection and solitude, even getting involved in smuggling weapons for the Jewish underground resistance in Palestine.
In November 1947, a significant announcement from the UN regarding the establishment of Israel reaches Reuven and his ailing father, which ignites hope of returning to their homeland. Shortly after, Danny reappears in Reuven’s life, eager to rekindle their friendship after a two-year separation. He shares the news that his father has accepted the reality of their situation, acknowledging that the new state of Israel is now a fact. Throughout this transition, Danny comes to realize that the silence imposed by his father can serve dual purposes—pain and beauty alike—in his personal growth.
By 1948, both friends find themselves once again caught between the divergent philosophies of father and son. As they learn more about Reb Saunders’ intentions behind raising Danny in silence, it becomes clear that Reb wished for his son to cultivate empathy and understanding of suffering rather than merely intellect. When it is revealed that Danny possesses both intelligence and compassion, Reb finally offers his blessing for Danny’s aspiration to study psychology, stating, “He will be a tzadik for the world.” With newfound openness, Reb Saunders approaches Danny to seek forgiveness for the pain of his upbringing, resulting in a heartfelt exchange that leaves both boys in tears.
In an emotional conclusion taking place in 1950, a transformed Danny arrives at Reuven’s house en route to his studies at Columbia University. He has shed his Hasidic appearance, symbolizing a new chapter in his life. Reuven shares his own plans to study at a yeshiva in Israel, optimistically accompanied by a nearly recovered David Malter. With Danny’s younger brother set to follow in their father’s religious footsteps, the deep bond of friendship between Reuven and Danny faces an inevitable transition. As they navigate the complexities of life, the two young men savor the bittersweet experience of understanding pain while finding solace in their profound camaraderie.
The Chosen Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
14 key events in the order they happen, from “Introduction of Characters” to “Embracing New Paths”.
- 1
Introduction of Characters
In 1944, we are introduced to Reuven 'Robert' Malter and Daniel 'Danny' Saunders, two 15-year-old Jewish boys living in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Despite residing in the same neighborhood, they have never met and have nothing in common, representing two distinct Jewish cultures.
When:1944 Where:Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York City
- 2
Reuven’s Background
Reuven is a Modern Orthodox Jew, who is smart and well-liked in his community. He lost his mother during the early years of the Holocaust, and his father, David Malter, is a Talmudic scholar and staunch Zionist, dreaming of a Jewish homeland free from persecution.
- 3
Danny’s Struggles
Danny is a Hasidic Jew and the son of Reb Isaac Saunders, a revered Rabbi who emigrated from Russia. Although he possesses a photographic memory and is drawn to psychology, he struggles under the weight of familial expectations to become a rabbi, which leads him to feel trapped.
- 4
First Meeting and Rivalry
Reuven and Danny’s paths finally cross during a high school softball game, which escalates into a fierce rivalry. Danny’s aggressive batting approach injures Reuven, shattering his glasses and leaving him with a serious eye injury that requires hospitalization.
- 5
Forging a Friendship
While Reuven recuperates in the hospital, Danny visits to apologize for the incident. Their shared experiences and contrasting backgrounds lead them to become close friends, allowing them to explore each other's lives and the complexities within their communities.
- 6
Danny’s Secret
Reuven learns about Danny's secret desire to pursue psychology instead of following in his father's footsteps as a rabbi. This revelation highlights the pressures Danny faces from his strict upbringing, as only a few people, including Reuven's father, are aware of his true aspirations.
- 7
Conflict Arises
In 1945, as World War II ends, Reuven faces backlash from Danny's father, Reb Saunders. After Reuven speaks favorably about a secular Jewish state in Palestine, Reuben is forbidden from communicating with Danny, deepening the sense of alienation between the two friends.
When:1945
- 8
Reuven’s Struggles
Amidst his turbulent friendship with Danny and the pressures they both face, Reuven's father suffers a stroke due to stress from his workload. This event forces Reuven into deep reflection and solitude as he visits his father in the hospital and grapples with the notion of loyalty and sacrifice.
- 9
News of Israel
In November 1947, Reuven and his father hear the historic news of the UN assembly voting to establish the Jewish state of Israel. This significant event fills them with hope, and Mr. Malter expresses plans to return to their homeland once he has recovered fully from his illness.
When:November 1947
- 10
Reunion of Friends
After a two-year separation, Danny visits Reuven to rekindle their friendship. He shares that his father has accepted the reality of Israel, revealing a personal growth in both their lives, reconnecting them as they acknowledge the lessons learned through silence and separation.
Show the other 4 events of The Chosen Hide the last 4 events
- 11
Understanding Silence
Reuven and Danny discover the reason behind Reb Saunders’ method of raising his son in silence. Reb Saunders hoped to instill compassion in Danny, recognizing that his intelligence surpassed his emotional understanding. This revelation brings them closer as friends.
When:1948
- 12
Reb Saunders' Blessing
After witnessing Danny's growth, Reb Saunders finally speaks to him openly and gives his blessing for Danny to pursue psychology. Acknowledging the consequences of his parenting style, he asks for Danny's forgiveness, marking a turning point in their relationship.
- 13
Final Transformation
In 1950, Danny visits Reuven on his way to Columbia University, having fully transformed his appearance and mindset. Meanwhile, Reuven prepares to join a yeshiva in Israel, revealing the resolution of their journeys as they embrace the future with hope while acknowledging their past.
When:1950
- 14
Embracing New Paths
Danny and Reuven reflect on their friendship and the journeys they have taken. As they prepare to pursue their respective dreams, they experience a bittersweet farewell, recognizing the deep friendship that has formed amidst their personal struggles and aspirations.
Who Are the Main Characters in The Chosen?
2 characters, among them Reuven 'Robert' Malter and Daniel 'Danny' Saunders: who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
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Reuven 'Robert' Malter
Played by Rod Steiger
Reuven is a smart and resilient 15-year-old who navigates the challenges of friendship and family while coping with the loss of his mother. He embodies a Modern Orthodox perspective and wrestles with the expectations placed upon him by both his father and society.
- 📖 Intellectual
- 🕊️ Resilient
- 💔 Compassionate
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Daniel 'Danny' Saunders
Played by Robert John Burke
Danny is a complex character caught between his aspirations and familial obligations. Despite being a promising scholar with a photographic memory, he struggles with the restrictions of his Hasidic upbringing and yearns for a life of his own choosing, particularly in psychology.
- 🧠 Intelligent
- ⚖️ Conflicted
- 💔 Sensitive
Where and When Is The Chosen Set?
The Chosen is set in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and New York City (1944-1950). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
1944-1950
The movie is set during a tumultuous time in history, encompassing World War II and its aftermath. The 1940s were marked by significant social changes, particularly with the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948, which played a crucial role in shaping Jewish identity and diaspora.
Where
Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York City
Williamsburg is a vibrant neighborhood in Brooklyn, known for its rich cultural diversity and historical significance, especially within the Jewish community. In the 1940s, it was a hub for Jewish immigrants, proudly preserving their traditions and languages while adapting to American life.
- 🏙️ Urban
- 📍 Historical
What Are the Themes of The Chosen?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Friendship, Identity and Silence and Pain.
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01
Friendship
The theme of friendship is central to the narrative, highlighting the deep bond between Reuven and Danny despite their differing backgrounds and familial pressures. Their friendship evolves from rivalry to a source of strength as they support one another through personal struggles and societal expectations.
-
02
Identity
The film explores themes of identity and self-discovery, particularly through Danny's conflict between his Hasidic upbringing and his desire to pursue a career in psychology. Both characters confront their personal struggles with cultural expectations and familial duties, shaping their paths towards self-acceptance.
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03
Silence and Pain
Silence emerges as a poignant theme, representing both emotional trauma and the complexities of communication between fathers and sons. Danny's upbringing in silence is a vital part of his character development, revealing layers of pain and ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of compassion and empathy.
What Kind of Film Is The Chosen?
Bittersweet in tone, with steady pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Bittersweet
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Moderate
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A thoughtful and emotionally resonant coming-of-age drama set against the backdrop of 1940s Brooklyn, exploring the weight of tradition and the bittersweet journey of two friends forging their own paths.
- thoughtful
- introspective
- strained
- hopeful
- atmospheric
- coming of age
- friendship
- father son relationship
- religious identity
- tradition vs modernity
Content notes: anti semitism, parental illness, religious prejudice.
Quiz
How well do you remember The Chosen? Test yourself on the story.
