Trailers Schmailers

As curator of this collection of Jewish-interest movie trailers I just had to post something in response to the previous post. The program is meant as an entertaining sampling of some of the many, many Jewish-themed films that have been made over the years. For most audiences it is both a walk down memory lane, and also a glimpse at lesser-known films that are of interest to Jewish viewers. There are several rarities including Moishe Oysher's 1956 film, Singing in the Dark and the rarely seen comedy, The Mad Adventures of "Rabbi" Jacob. In many ways it is really a starting point for discussion as it offers an entertaining crash course in Jewish film history -- covering various realms of interest, from Holocaust films to Barbara Streisand.

Viewed in the context of a Jewish Film festival, this feature documentary seemed irrelevant, i.e. without "Jewish" content. The mere fact that an individual actor or filmmaker happens to be Jewish does not necessarily give their work a "Jewish twist." One expects vignettes reflecting the Jewish experience, or having historical significance (in this case it could be family histories, the Holocaust, Israel, diaspora life, etc) or even something to do with religious matters. Speilberg made "E.T. and "Saving Private Ryan"---not Jewish films. He also made "Schindler's List." No question about its significance in this discussion! Roberto Benigni is not a Jew, but "Life is Beautiful" could easily be shown at a Jewish film festival, without apologies. "Trailers, Schmailers" is interesting for its film history. It is not a Jewish film. (Was it intended to be?) And it is not a particularly well put together collection, but that's easy for me, a non-filmmaker to say! Hats off to anyone who can splice anything together!