Shalom Michaelashvili Transforms for New Avi Nesher Film About October 7
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
Comedian Shalom Michaelashvili has undergone a significant physical transformation for his dramatic role in Avi Nesher's new film, "Our Loves," which focuses on events of October 7. Michaelashvili plays intelligence officer Shimon Portal, a hero from the Zikim community, gaining seven kilograms of muscle for the part. The film, which screened at the Toronto International Film Festival and opened the Haifa International Film Festival, depicts Portal's actions rescuing his daughter and others during the attacks.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Shalom Michaelashvili transformed physically for his role in Avi Nesher's October 7 film "Our Loves."
- Michaelashvili gained seven kilograms of muscle mass during a six-month preparation for the role.
- He portrays Shimon Portal, an intelligence officer and hero from Zikim.
- The film depicts Portal's rescue of his daughter, Netta, who was shot seven times.
- The movie received a standing ovation at the Toronto International Film Festival.
- Avi Nesher was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Haifa International Film Festival.
Israeli comedian Shalom Michaelashvili, known for his comedic roles and recent blockbuster "Shuli 2," is undertaking a dramatic shift in his career with a leading role in director Avi Nesher's new film, "Our Loves." The film, which explores human stories surrounding the October 7 events, features Michaelashvili as Shimon Portal, a Southern District Police intelligence officer and resident of Zikim, who became a symbol of heroism.
To prepare for the role, Michaelashvili underwent an intensive six-month physical transformation, gaining seven kilograms of muscle mass. Portal, the real-life inspiration for the character, admitted he was initially surprised by the casting, questioning his suitability for the part. The film depicts Portal's harrowing experience on October 7, when he fought for hours in Sderot before receiving distress calls from his daughter Netta, who was in Kfar Aza and injured. He drove to her under heavy fire, assembled an impromptu force, engaged in close-quarters combat with terrorists, rescued wounded individuals, and ultimately saved his daughter, who had been shot seven times.
Michaelashvili expressed his awe at Portal's actions, remarking, "Netflix needs to make a subscription for Shimon Portal." The film received a standing ovation at the Toronto International Film Festival, where Nesher noted that international audiences were astonished to learn Michaelashvili was a well-known comedian in Israel. The movie also opened the Haifa International Film Festival in late September, where Nesher was honored with a lifetime achievement award.