Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Intimate character study set in Orthodox Jewish community.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
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Menashe
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Set in an Orthodox Jewish community in New York City, MENASHE is about a widower fighting for custody of his son. Menashe (Menashe Lustig) is a continuously unlucky store clerk who believes he should be allowed to look after his son, Rieven (Ruben Niborski). Unfortunately for Menashe, the local rabbi disagrees, determining that in order to regain custody, he must marry again.
Is It Any Good?
A touching drama, steeped in realism and performed entirely in Yiddish, this film is loosely based on the real-life story of its lead actor, Lustig. Directed by Joshua Z Weinstein, Menashe has a clear affection for New York's Orthodox Jewish community, where the film is set. The filmmaker maintains a documentary-style throughout, never pointing fingers, nor passing judgment. That said, he isn't afraid to hold certain practices and traditions to modern standards. Lustig's lead performance is both beautifully understated and authentic. Remarkably, not only was Lustig not a professionally trained actor, he also claims to have never even been to a movie theater before taking on the role. It was a gamble that paid off, as Lustig's naturalistic performance brings depth and sincerity to the film, allowing the first-time actor to approach the material in his own unique way without any cinematic influence or prior training.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how New York's Orthodox Jewish community was depicted in Menashe. Are you familiar with this community? Did you learn anything new? How did some traditions look when viewed through today's lens?
What character strengths did Menashe show during the film? Why are they important traits to have? Can you think of a time when you've demonstrated these strengths in your own life?
Lead actor Menashe Lustig had never even been in a movie theater, let alone acted, before this film. Does that surprise you? Why, or why not?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 28, 2017
- On DVD or streaming : October 10, 2017
- Cast : Menashe Lustig , Ruben Niborski , Meir Ber Schwartz
- Director : Joshua Z Weinstein
- Inclusion Information : Asian Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : A24
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Perseverance , Self-control
- Run time : 82 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic elements
- Last updated : March 29, 2025
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