Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gay romance set in Orthodox Jewish community has sex/nudity.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Eyes Wide Open
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In EYES WIDE OPEN, butcher Aaron Fleischman (Zohar Strauss) is married with four children and is a respected pillar of the Orthodox Jewish community in Jerusalem. However, Aaron's life changes when he embarks on an illicit and passionate affair with his young apprentice, Ezri (Ran Khalil Danker), testing both his marriage and his faith.
Is It Any Good?
Set within Jerusalem's Orthodox Jewish community, this Israeli drama offers an intimate portrayal of a forbidden gay romance. The relationship at the heart of Eyes Wide Open between respected butcher Aaron and his younger, "cursed" apprentice, Ezri, unfolds largely in the shadows. Like Disobedience, Carol, and Brokeback Mountain, the film thrives on subtext, relying on unspoken words, lingering glances, and fleeting but significant touches. However, its slow-burning pace and restrained storytelling may not appeal to all viewers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the relationship at the heart of Eyes Wide Open. Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
What message do you think the film is trying to say?
How was the Orthodox Jewish community portrayed in the movie?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 5, 2010
- On DVD or streaming : January 3, 2017
- Cast : Zohar Strauss , Ran Khalil Danker , Tinkerbell
- Director : Haim Tabakman
- Studio : New American Vision
- Genre : Romance
- Topics : Faith ( Judaism ) , Family Stories , Activism ( LGBTQ+ rights )
- Run time : 91 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 8, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate