The Jewish Cardinal

This documentary explores the complex relationship between Rabbi Shlomo Riskin, a prominent figure in the religious Zionist movement, and his son, who chooses to convert to Catholicism. The film delves into the theological, familial, and personal struggles that arise from this profound divergence in faith, examining the nature of religious identity, parental love, and the challenges of maintaining familial bonds across deep ideological divides.

The documentary received a mixed but generally positive reception, with critics often highlighting its sensitive and nuanced portrayal of a difficult family dynamic. While some found the pacing deliberate, many praised its intellectual depth and its exploration of fundamental questions about faith, family, and identity. The film was commended for avoiding easy answers and for presenting the perspectives of both father and son with empathy.

• Praised for its sensitive handling of a deeply personal and challenging subject.

• Commended for its intellectual exploration of faith, identity, and family ties.

• Noted for its empathetic portrayal of conflicting perspectives without taking sides.

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The film was Shimon Dotan's first feature-length documentary after a long career primarily focused on directing television documentaries and news segments.