Shikun

A diverse cross-section of Israeli society comes together in a multi-purpose building - the Shikun. People of different languages, origins and generations meet in theatrically stylized scenes and try to come to terms with the current state of affairs. In an apt metaphor inspired by Eugène Ionesco's famous play Rhinocéros, some of them are transformed into rhinoceroses, while others resist metamorphosis. In his latest film, Gitai remains true to his patented style of symbol-heavy theatricality to create a complex allegory of contemporary Israel. Critical voices after the Berlinale premiere agreed that Gitai continues to defy the norms of commercial cinema to practice essential political filmmaking. Many were surprised that Shikun was shot before the Hamas terror attack on October 7, 2023, because it seems like a reaction to it. Austrian premiere. (Jurij Meden)

Photo: Austrian Film Museum