Jew-Boy Levi
Screening: 20 January 2003
Germany/Switzerland/Austria 1999 (subtitles)
95 minutes
Directed by Didi Danquart
Leading players - Bruno Cathomas, Caroline Ebner, Eva Mattes.
Synopsis
In 1935 many German rural areas had yet to feel the influence of Nazi philosophy. Benjamin Levi (Cathomas) is an itinerant cattle dealer. His business brings him to a Black Forest valley every year where he is welcomed and respected. He is also hopeful of securing the affections of Lisbeth (Ebner), a farmer’s daughter.The opening sequences follow his travels and humorously record his philosophical musings with his pet rabbit, Jankel. When railway workers arrive in the village, the engineer, a committed Nazi, gives a radio to the innkeeper. This “peoples’ broadcaster” brings strident outside voices and the political concerns of Berlin to the village and the benign atmosphere changes. The new order holds Jews responsible for the nation’s problems and this can only mean rejection for Levi.
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The film was adapted by the director from a successful stage play. It is included in our Season to mark Holocaust Memorial Day.Winner of the Caligari Award at the Berlin Film Festival 1999.
