Israeli Mystery Drama 'My One and Only' Premieres Nationwide Supported by Shomron Film Fund

The mystery drama film "My One and Only," written and directed by David Tauber and produced by Elia Tauber, is set to premiere in cinemas across Israel tomorrow, Thursday. The film was produced with support from the Shomron Film Fund and the Rabinowitz Fund. It has already been screened at the Jerusalem Film Festival and was selected as the opening film of the sixth Shomron International Film Festival. The story follows three women, a young religious returnee, a secular bride-to-be, and a community female rabbi, whose lives intersect around a mystery blending mystical and psychological elements. The cast includes Talia Bartfeld, Nadav Antman Ron, Navit Sitbon, Shimon Mimran, Zohar Strauss, Inbal Raz, Yoel Rozenkier, Ella Armoni, Amit Lior, Esti Zakaim, Shosha Goren, Vered Ben Hor, and Alon Hamawi.

David Tauber explained that the screenplay was inspired by legends and rabbinic commentaries (Midrashim) as he sought to create a cinematic parallel to the unique language of the Talmudic world. The film’s associative structure aims to reflect the way Talmudic discourse moves from topic to topic yet ultimately forms a broader, deeper meaning. Despite its inspiration from rabbinic texts, Tauber intended to craft an emotional and intriguing story appealing to a wide audience, combining mystery, Israeli diversity, comedy, and drama. He emphasized his motivation to connect the worlds of Torah study and cinema to create a work that resonates with different audiences.

Yossi Dagan, head of the Shomron Regional Council and chairman of the Shomron Film Fund, called the film a significant cultural breakthrough. He noted it is the first Israeli film to present a protagonist from the perspective of the national-religious community (knitted kippah wearers) as a central voice rather than a marginal character. Dagan stressed that Israeli cinema should tell the story of all segments of Israeli society, allowing every population to see themselves and their stories on screen. He added that Judea and Samaria are not only places of history and settlement but also centers of creativity, culture, and renewed Israeli spirit. Dagan expressed pride in the film and its creators for bringing a fascinating, diverse, and unique Israeli voice to the screen.