New Documentary Reveals Naomi Shemer's Private, Complex Life

A new two-part documentary, "Naomi Shemer, Between Grass and Stone," airing on Kan 11, delves into the lesser-known, more human aspects of the iconic Israeli songwriter, revealing a complex personality beyond her public image. The film, which premiered at the Haifa Film Festival, incorporates personal notes, diaries, and letters, alongside rare archival footage and musical performances.

Co-creators Shi Lahav and Ron Omer sought to bridge the gap between Shemer's public persona as a "dame with huge dresses" and the multifaceted woman she was. The documentary highlights her struggles with dieting, her passionate relationships, her rebellious nature, and her deep connection to her children, Lali Shemer and Ariel Horowitz. "She was exciting, full of passion for life and for men, rebellious, confrontational, a star, everything that makes a character fascinating," said Omer.

The film explores Shemer's relationship with her mother, who initially dismissed her popular songs, and her eventual artistic reconciliation after the success of "Yerushalayim Shel Zahav." It also examines her right-wing political views, which led to criticism and a degree of ostracization within a predominantly left-leaning artistic community. Despite facing backlash, Shemer continued to be widely played and received the Israel Prize in 1983.

Shemer's personal writings, described as "text hoarders," reveal a woman of intense emotions, including periods of depression and a desire to "devour the world" while also striving to be a good mother. The documentary also touches upon the controversy surrounding the melody of "Yerushalayim Shel Zahav," which Shemer, near the end of her life, admitted was influenced by a Basque folk song, a claim she had previously denied.

The filmmakers chose to focus on intimate interviews with those who knew her best, including her children and close friends like Rivka Michaeli and Dalia Gutman, rather than academic experts. This approach aimed to capture the essence of Shemer's personality, acknowledging both her creative genius and her human flaws.