Third 'Good Boys' Film Falters, Criticized for Escapism and Poor Execution

The Israeli film "Good Boys 3" has been released, continuing a rare trilogy in Israeli cinema, following "Good Boys" (2022) and "Good Boys 2" (2024). However, the latest installment is criticized for its superficial portrayal of the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, presenting it as mere folklore for a non-Haredi audience while ignoring internal tensions, racism, and social-political realities. The film allegedly sidesteps issues like racism between Ashkenazi and Sephardi Haredim, hierarchies within the community, and rising anti-Arab sentiment, instead featuring a token Arab character. Critics argue that the series increasingly diverges from social reality, creating a fantasy that fails to entertain effectively.

Despite a talented cast and crew, including director Erez Tadmor, screenwriter Chava Deen, and actors Maor Schweitzer and Niv Sultan, the film suffers from a declining quality. The plot of "Good Boys 3" centers on the financial struggles of the engaged couple Baruch and Ruth as they plan their wedding. Their hope for financial salvation comes from a wealthy American-Haredi real estate tycoon, Michael Gerstel, who offers a substantial reward for a suitable match for his daughter, Rivka. Baruch and his former employer, Malki, travel to New York to arrange the match, leading to a split narrative between New York and Bnei Brak.

The film's structure, which mirrors a television series with too many characters and underdeveloped subplots, is seen as a significant weakness, particularly in this third installment. The review points out inconsistencies, such as the tycoon's character speaking fluent Hebrew after initially claiming to only know English, and the implausible scenario of him favoring an impoverished, non-English-speaking yeshiva student for his daughter. The humor is often described as unintentional and awkward, with scenes like a robbery by a Santa Claus figure and unrealistic depictions of New York airports contributing to the film's perceived lack of credibility and entertainment value. The review concludes that while fans of the previous films might find it entertaining, "Good Boys 3" is difficult to recommend.