Bad Shabbos

I'm a sucker for the "dinner party gone wrong" comedy/thriller subgenre, so from the get go, I did have a bit of a soft spot for Bad Shabbos. It's evidently a first attempt from writer/director Daniel Robinson and has a charming student film energy about it. (I happened to see it on the big screen, so I can't lie - it was a bit jarring visually).

I think writing and script are generally pretty good and the film's strongest aspect; again, typical of a student film. The dialog is snappy and fun, even if tends to over explain a little bit at times.

Daniel Robinson's character is exactly the sort of affable, reasonable schlub you'd expect a 20 something film nerd to write. His shiska princess is beautiful and of course, deeply committed to him and his culture; Milana Vayntrub and Method Man (of all people) are highlights.

But the film lacks narrative complexity (there are very half baked, poorly developed sub plots all throughout), and the gradual building of tension that the best of these movies excel at. Once the inciting incident happens, the film kind of spins its wheels to the next predictable plot escalation.

Again, it's not "movie ruining" or anything like that, but it's obvious what the structure of it is about a quarter of the way through. It just needed SOMETHING to liven up the narrative.

One thing that definitely perked my ears up was the character of Adam, who...in what I can only describe a quite jarring decision is...obsessed with the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) and let's just say, subtextually, his conduct doesn't paint that obsession in a good light, even if the movie does. I don't want to get political here, but given the current situation in that particular part of the world...it was quite the choice.

Overall, Bad Shabbos is a fun first draft of a film. Rough around the edges, but enjoyable, especially for those who enjoy Jewish humour in particular.

This film is a must see! A perfect ensemble cast film that flows seamlessly. All of the actors are top notch and compliment each other perfectly. No one steals the show but Method Man has some great scene stealers. Kyra Sedgwick was the perfect ying to David Paymer's Yang. Milana Vayntrub is on her way to stardom after this film. She is so funny.

The directing is perfect. Very much has a Mike Nichols/woody Allen feel. An amazing well written script and screenplay. This is a perfect movie for an audience viewing. The audience at Tribeca laughed out loud non-stop. It is also a great story about family and what it means to be family. Considering all the other movies out there, this has to rank as one of the best comedies to come out in years!

Do yourself a mitzvah and go see "Bad Sabbos"! This movie is pure comedy gold-sharp writing from Daniel Robbins & Zack Weiner, clean humor that actually lands, and joke after joke without a stale moment. The ensemble cast is so in sync they could be a well-rehearsed kugel recipe. Every scene is packed with laughs, clever dialogue, and just the right amount of absurdity to keep everyone entertained from start to finish. If you need a break from the daily schlep and want a feel-good comedy that actually delivers, this is the movie to see! Trust me, you won't regret it-your funny bone will thank you!

A great new addition into the cannon of Jewish cinema. A silly and smart slice of hectic life in a Shabbos night.

Well written. The characters and plot really develop as the story it takes hold.

I would recommend this movie for sure. I think one of the redeeming qualities is how Judaism and connection to israel and ancient roots and community and family all intersected in the film in a time where the conversations sadly aren't as mainstream or supported. So refreshing to feel seen in the media like this now.

It feels like you're really good about dinner my friends and family of course with a crazy turn! Unexpected and quite delightful.

Will be remembered fondly.

I had the absolute pleasure of seeing Bad Shabbos last night! What a delightful comedy! The ensemble cast is extremely talented. The humor in this movie can be appreciated by everyone. It transverses all religions and ethnicities. You only need to have a family to be able to relate. An additional treat to the evening, was getting to meet the director of this outstanding movie, Daniel Robbins. He's incredibly charming and humble! I don't think he realizes how gifted he is! He's quite approachable, warm and grateful for the positive response to his work. It is so promising to see a director of his caliber emerging. I will be on board to see all of his future movies.