New Israeli Comedy 'Hill 338' Pays Tribute to Cult Classic 'Hill Halfon'

Fifty years after the release of the iconic Israeli cult film "Hill Halfon Doesn't Answer," a new comedy titled "Hill 338" is set to premiere in cinemas on August 6. Directed by Erez Ben Harosh, the film honors the spirit of the original classic by Assi Dayan and the Gashash HaHiver trio, but features an entirely original story, new characters, and a contemporary take on Israeli reality.

"Hill Halfon Doesn't Answer," released in 1976, is considered one of the most influential films in Israeli cinema history, with many of its lines becoming part of Israeli cultural lexicon. Ben Harosh emphasized that "Hill 338" is not a remake or sequel but a dialogue with the original, aiming to create a fresh Israeli comedy that stands on its own for today's audience.

The plot of "Hill 338" unfolds at a small, remote military base in the Jordan Valley, which is about to be evacuated as part of an international initiative to renew the Silk Road. The story follows Ran Shem Tov, a "disposal officer," who discovers a mysterious bunker beneath the base, leading to unexpected threats that force the base's occupants to unite.

The cast includes Eli Yatzpan, returning to a leading film role after nearly 40 years, alongside Shahar Hasson in his cinematic debut, Yael Poliakov, Kim Or Azoulay, Abraham Arenson, Tal Friedman, Uri Gottlieb, and others. Shai Levy, a member of the original Gashash HaHiver and star of "Hill Halfon Doesn't Answer," makes a special guest appearance.

"Hill 338" is a joint production by United King Films, Keshet 12, and No Drama Studio, supported by the Rabinovich Foundation. It will be released nationwide in Israel on August 6.