Shababnikim

Shababnikim aka The New Black (referring to the men's attire) is a raucously funny and clever comdram, even romcom. It's an endearing peek into what to most of us is the mysterious world of the Ultra-Orthodox Jews. Without dwelling, it presents the friction between the ethnic Ashkenazi and Sphardi groups, between the young and the old, the variety of religious streams, the religious and the secular; not an easy task, and the creators aced it.

How to translate the slang word "shababnik"? Maybe rascally. Yes, these young men are rascals, a tad off track and finding their paths.

I love how they so glibly quote The Sages in relevant situations. It's so adorable.

The funky music, and the romantic music are wonderful. I want to find the soundrack.

And the matchmaking, the pressure to find just the right wife and husband are also presented endearingly and delightfully. So you find out that the whole matchmaking scene of the ultra religious is not as stringent or coercive as you may have thought.

The actors (men and women) are just impeccable.

The character development of each one is brilliant. Of course the unexpected favorite is Gdaliah, who seems to be such a neurotic nerd, but his strong belief is his and everyone's moral compass. The actor Ori Laizerouvich, who I'd seen but never noticed before, is Jerry Lewis type. He has me in stiches.

Maya Wertheimer is just precious with her character Dvorahm the feisty feminist Haredit (Ultra-Orthodox) young woman, intent on finding the right match.

Guri Alfi, so out of character, is brilliant. Rotem Keinan plays good and evil like I've never seen him before. Our beloved Dov Navon, also out of character, is perfect. Same goes for Israel Atias, very versatile young man.

Very talented creators/directors Eliran Malka (I believe that for him, this was a labor of love), and Daniel Paran, did a great job collaborating on this entertaining materpiece.

I can't recommend this series enough for good laughs and a sneak peek into this enriched world. Thank you Netflix for including the first season. Looking forward to the second season for sure!

If you've had anything to do with Orthodox Jews or are just curious about their culture in Israel, this is a great show that combines comedy with poignant social commentary. It not only deals with orthodox vs. Secular Jews, but Ashkenazi vs. Sephardic Jews and special challenges faced by Orthodox Jewish women. Well written, beautifully acted and populated by characters you will care about. Every bit as good as Shtisel, if not better. Anyone who went to an Orthodox Yeshiva or dealt with the internal social politics among the religious and non-religious in Israel will love it. And the second season is even better than the first.