Sabbath

Sabbath is a religious word for holy time, but Dobelmeier's documentary could put brakes on the pace of life for anyone, even those who don't really know what the word "Sabbath" means. The concept of an enforced community rest day from Jewish roots to Christian Sunday to Friday prayers is certainly clothed in the monotheistic religions. And part of the charm of the documentary is poking into religious communities and practices exotic to non-participants. But be prepared to be asked to think about private ownership of land, 7 year terms on any contract and 49 year limits on any debit. The photography and format is PBS-esque and well done as usual by this producer. But Sabbath as an idea is surprisingly radical. It has the potential to be ecologically, economically, industrially, or personally disruptive apart from religions. If you are willing to risk it, slow down and listen to these strange Sabbatizers trying to show you why life might be safer and happier when outfitted with a set of brakes.