Unorthodox
Unorthodox

TV Show spotlight

Unorthodox

2020
TV Show
Ended
1 Season
German

A Hasidic Jewish woman in Brooklyn flees to Berlin from an arranged marriage and is taken in by a group of musicians — until her past comes calling.

Insights

IMDb7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes98%
Metacritic81/100
Google Users94%
Director: Maria SchraderGenres: Drama, Miniseries

Plot Summary

Unorthodox tells the story of Esty Shapiro, a young Hasidic Jewish woman living in an ultra-Orthodox community in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Feeling stifled and trapped by the rigid expectations and traditions of her arranged marriage and community, she makes a daring escape. Esty flees to Berlin, Germany, seeking a new life and a chance to explore her own identity and desires.

Critical Reception

Unorthodox was met with widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its sensitive and authentic portrayal of a marginalized community, its compelling narrative, and the standout performance of Shira Haas. The series was praised for its nuanced exploration of faith, freedom, and self-discovery, drawing attention to the challenges faced by individuals seeking to leave insular religious groups.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sensitive and authentic portrayal of Hasidic Jewish life and the protagonist's journey of self-discovery.

  • Shira Haas delivers a captivating and nuanced performance as Esty, drawing viewers into her emotional struggle.

  • The series is commended for its respectful approach to exploring complex themes of tradition, freedom, and identity.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly praise 'Unorthodox' for its powerful storytelling and the incredible performance by Shira Haas. Viewers found the series deeply moving and enlightening, appreciating its honest depiction of a young woman's quest for freedom and self-determination.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for 8 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or a Dramatic Special and Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie.

Fun Fact

The series is inspired by Deborah Feldman's 2012 autobiography of the same name, which chronicles her own escape from the Satmar Hasidic community in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

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