Israeli Film 'Because You Are Ugly' Portrays Complex Journey of Troubled Soldier

"Because You Are Ugly," the debut film by Sharon Engelhardt, tells the story of Abigail, a young, overweight soldier from a broken, impoverished family in Jerusalem. Portrayed by Riki Reif Sinai, Abigail initially comes across as aggressive, vulgar, and hostile, reflecting the disdain she receives from the world around her. The film opens with this abrasive attitude, mirroring the character's tough exterior.

Abigail's commanding officer gives her a final chance to improve her situation: if she arrives at the base on time after her weekend leave, he will recommend her for an officer training course. Returning home to the Gilo neighborhood, Abigail faces a dysfunctional mother, played by Yael Abecassis, and is determined to lose her virginity before starting the course. However, her plans are disrupted when she discovers her 15-year-old sister, played by Uri Avinoam (who won an Ophir Award for Best Supporting Actress for this role), is pregnant. Abigail spends the weekend trying to raise money for her sister's abortion while struggling to make it back to the army on time.

The film explores Abigail's dual life: in the army, she is withdrawn and bullied due to her weight, while at home she acts as a neighborhood bully, lashing out with insults and curses. Despite her harsh demeanor, the story gradually reveals a softer, more caring side beneath her defensive aggression. Abigail's antagonism towards her sister masks a desire to protect and guide her in the absence of a functional mother.

Engelhardt's direction skillfully aligns the audience's evolving feelings toward Abigail with the narrative, transforming initial hostility into empathy. The film has been compared to Catherine Breillat's "Fat Girl" for its raw portrayal of young women's sexual and emotional struggles, but Engelhardt infuses warmth and complexity into her characters. "Because You Are Ugly" ultimately offers a powerful lesson in empathy and understanding through its nuanced depiction of a troubled young woman seeking connection and goodness.