Israeli Film 'My One and Only' Explores Mystical Mystery Through Religious and Secular Perspectives

The Israeli narrative film "My One and Only," written and directed by David Tauber and produced by Elia Tauber with support from the Shomron Film Fund and the Rabinovich Foundation, premieres nationwide on Thursday. The film, which previously screened at the Jerusalem Film Festival and opened the 6th Shomron International Film Festival, follows three women, a newly religious woman, a secular bride-to-be, and a community rabbi, whose lives intersect around a mystery that blends mystical and psychological elements.

Featuring a diverse cast including Talia Bartfeld, Nadav Antman Ron, Navit Sitbon, Shimon Mimran, Zohar Strauss, Inbal Raz, Yoel Rozenkier, Ela Armoni, Amit Lior, Esti Zakaim, Shosha Goren, Vered Ben Hor, and Alon Hamawi, the film draws inspiration from Talmudic legends and Midrashim. Tauber aimed to create a cinematic parallel to the unique associative style of Talmudic discourse, where seemingly unrelated topics connect to form a broader, deeper meaning.

Tauber explained his goal was to craft an emotionally engaging and intriguing story that appeals to a wide audience, blending mystery, Israeli diversity, comedy, and drama. He emphasized his passion for merging Torah study with cinema to reach varied viewers.

Yossi Dagan, head of the Shomron Regional Council and chairman of the Shomron Film Fund, hailed the film as a cultural breakthrough. He noted it is the first Israeli film to center a protagonist from the religious Zionist community, presenting their perspective as a main voice rather than a marginal character. Dagan stressed the importance of Israeli cinema reflecting the entire society, including the Judea and Samaria region as a vibrant cultural and creative hub. He expressed pride in the film and its creators for delivering a unique and diverse Israeli cinematic voice.