Jerusalem, a city steeped in history and spirituality, also has a lighter side that's often overlooked. This curated list of 10 comedy films set in or around Jerusalem showcases the city's vibrant culture, its diverse inhabitants, and the universal themes of love, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness. These films not only entertain but also provide a unique lens through which to view one of the world's most iconic cities, blending humor with the rich tapestry of Jerusalem's life.
The Band's Visit (2007)
Description: This heartwarming comedy-drama follows an Egyptian police band that mistakenly ends up in a small Israeli town instead of Jerusalem. The film captures the essence of cultural misunderstandings and the beauty of human connection.
Fact: The film was Israel's submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, and it won the Ophir Award for Best Picture.
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The Human Resources Manager (2010)
Description: This film blends humor with drama as a human resources manager from Jerusalem is sent on a mission to retrieve the body of a former employee, leading to unexpected adventures.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by A.B. Yehoshua and was Israel's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars.
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Kadosh (1999)
Description: Although more of a drama, this film includes elements of dark comedy as it explores the lives of two women in Jerusalem's ultra-Orthodox community, dealing with issues of marriage and faith.
Fact: The film was controversial for its depiction of the ultra-Orthodox community but was critically acclaimed for its honest portrayal.
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The Matchmaker (2010)
Description: Set in Jerusalem's ultra-Orthodox community, this film follows a young matchmaker who must navigate tradition and modernity, leading to comedic situations.
Fact: The film was a box office success in Israel and was praised for its authentic portrayal of the Haredi community.
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Ushpizin (2004)
Description: Set during the Jewish holiday of Sukkot in Jerusalem, this film tells the story of an Orthodox Jewish couple who experience unexpected guests, leading to humorous and touching moments.
Fact: The film was the first ever to be shot entirely in the ultra-Orthodox neighborhood of Mea Shearim in Jerusalem.
30 Days Free Lemon Tree (2008)
Description: While not a comedy in the traditional sense, this film uses humor to explore the absurdities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the story of a Palestinian widow whose lemon grove is threatened by the Israeli security minister's new home.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life legal case and was nominated for the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival.
30 Days Free Turn Left at the End of the World (2004)
Description: This film tells the story of two Indian women who move to a remote Israeli village, leading to cultural clashes and comedic situations as they navigate life in a new country.
Fact: The film was inspired by the true story of Indian immigrants in Israel.
30 Days Free The Holy Land (2001)
Description: A satirical look at life in Jerusalem, focusing on a Jewish-American family's visit to the city, highlighting the cultural and religious tensions with humor.
Fact: The film was directed by Eitan Gorlin, who also wrote and starred in it, making it a deeply personal project.
30 Days Free The Policeman's Daughter (2005)
Description: A comedy-drama about a police officer's daughter who gets involved in a series of humorous and chaotic events in Jerusalem.
Fact: The film was well-received for its light-hearted take on family dynamics in the city.
30 Days Free The Jerusalem Syndrome (2007)
Description: This film humorously explores the phenomenon known as "Jerusalem Syndrome," where visitors to the city experience religious delusions, leading to comedic and touching situations.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life cases of Jerusalem Syndrome and was shot on location in Jerusalem.
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