Maktub

... other ones being "Shawshank redemption" , "Groundhog day", "midnight run", "ikiru" , "departures", "Being there" or "lilies of the field".

Although not all put in a religious setting, all those movies wrestle with the ground for a good life, in a world where "religious dogmatism" does not hod up, and/ or where the hero, initially on a trajectory ridden by self interest, reconstructs his identity along the lines of the "Christ archetype" (Taken here in an inter-faith denomination).

This includes sacrificing himself out of compassion for the other, taking responsibility for shortcomings that are not his own, and acting truthfully, in alliance with his emotion and conscience. It should be added that the particularity of this sacrifice is that it is both non-violent and life affirming.

The "Givedness of life" is the cathartic moment for the Hero in "Maktub". Grasping his newly discovered aliveness, he is able to reach out, open his hand, and bring about life, in the lives of others.

He is not the biological father, but the one through which fatherhood becomes possible. "He is not god", as he says himself. Still he will have been the very condition for generating Life in another beings, and redeeming the life, that here exists.

A surprisingly well-made, feel-good movie with a veritable comedic touch--the humor and wit in the dialogue make one smile broadly.

The idea behind the story is refreshing and the storytelling is made more authentic by its setting which is Jerusalem. The duo of Chuma and Steve are engaging. Their parts are acted just right by Gur Amor and Hansen Savyon who are, incidentally, also the writers.

It's a film that you would like to watch a second or a third time because it's really funny but thoughtful with an unmistakable message of hope.

Unique and engaging. Clever storyline, starts violent, gets very heartfelt. Keeps you on your toes and is quite brilliant actually. Dotted with many funny moments. Watch it. PS Learned that the main two actors are also the writers. Such talent. Now I need to go watch everything they've produced!

Very entertaining, touching and well played. Great work!!! Well, I didn't expect anything else from Guy Amir and Hanan Savyon. Simply exceptional!

This movie is funny, serious, light, feel good. I am so glad we watched it