New Year's Weekend Culture Guide Features Israeli Film and Music

Israel's Oscar submission, "Independence," is now playing in cinemas nationwide following its success at the Israeli Film Academy Awards, where it garnered ten awards including Best Film. Directed by Moshe Rosenthal, the period drama, set in 1987, follows 12-year-old Boaz as he uncovers a shocking secret about his father, played by Asi Cohen. The film explores the devastating consequences of this revelation and Boaz's adult journey to confront his childhood trauma, with Ido Tako portraying the older Boaz. This is Rosenthal's second film, continuing his exploration of family dynamics.

In music news, rocker Berry Sakharof is releasing his first solo album in 15 years, titled "Sulam Ha'ahava" (Ladder of Love). He will perform songs from the new album, alongside his established repertoire, at the Shuni Amphitheater on Sunday. The album features ten songs and collaborations with artists like Dan Toren and Micha Shitrit, with production by his son, Ben Hendler.

A documentary about the band Oasis, "Oasis: Don't Look Back In Anger," is also premiering this weekend in IMAX theaters. The film chronicles the reunion of brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher and their subsequent world tour, offering behind-the-scenes footage and interviews, including their first joint interviews in over two decades. It also examines the band's enduring legacy and dedicated fanbase.

Theatergoers have two new comedy options. "Oh God," a revival of Anat Gov's play, features a psychologist trying to convince God, who is contemplating ending humanity, to change his mind. The second play, "Goodbye and Thanks for the Cream Cake," centers on a couple who plan to end their lives after 50 years of marriage, only to have their plans disrupted by the arrival of their children.