Between the Temples: A Funny and Touching Look at Loss and Renewal
“Between the Temples” starts a bit rough. We meet Ben Gottlieb (Jason Schwartzman), a depressed cantor in his forties stuck between the meddling of his two mothers (played by the delightful Caroline Aaron and Dolly de Leon) who desperately want him to find happiness, be it through therapy, a new girlfriend, or ideally both. But push through those initial awkward encounters, and you’re rewarded with a consistently hilarious and surprisingly touching film.
The setup might sound like a recipe for a trite tearjerker: Ben, still reeling from the death of his novelist wife a year ago, can’t bring himself to sing anymore. His only solace seems to be the (somewhat self-serving) support of his boss, Rabbi Bruce (Robert Smigel), who’s more interested in securing donations than Ben’s well-being.
Then, his world is upended by the arrival of Carla (Carol Kane), his eccentric former music teacher, who enrolls in adult Bat Mitzvah classes. As Ben reluctantly becomes Carla’s tutor, an unlikely friendship blossoms, offering both characters a chance to confront their grief and rediscover a zest for life.
Schwartzman perfectly captures Ben’s melancholic resignation, punctuated by moments of dry wit. Kane, however, steals the show as the effervescent Carla, injecting the film with an energy that perfectly complements Ben’s somber mood.
Their dynamic is the film’s heart, and their journey of self-discovery is funny and deeply affecting.
While “Between the Temples” doesn’t shy away from emotional moments, it never loses its comedic touch. The film’s humor is sharp and witty, with a healthy dose of awkwardness that feels true to life.
So, if you’re looking for a funny and heartwarming film with standout performances from Schwartzman and Kane, then “Between the Temples” is worth checking out. Just be prepared to get past those initial, slightly bumpy introductions.
Starring: Jason Schwartzman
Carol Kane
Caroline Aaron
Robert Smigel
Madeline Weinstein
Matthew Shear
Dolly de Leon
Distributed by Sony Pictures Classics
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