Scaffolding is one of four Israeli films to be shown during the Chicago International Film Festival.

Written and directed by Matan Yair, the Israeli film stars Asher Lax, Ami Smolartchik, Jacob Cohen, and Keren Berger. Lax makes his professional and cinematic debut as an actor and takes home an Ophir Award nomination in the process.

Asher (Lax) is a troublemaker and he’s always been this way in school.  Despite the rage and violence that Asher is likely to stat, there’s also some charm and wisdom somewhere beneath the skin.  His dad wants him to take over the family business in scaffolding.  It shouldn’t come as s surprise that Asher has no interest in going that route.  He looks to his literature teacher, Rami (Smolartchik), as a role model.  Tragedy awaits as a bond grows between the two as Asher is torn as to which direction to head towards.

There’s something that is fascinating about watching Israeli films.  Maybe it’s my Jewish background and limited knowledge or Hebrew or my connection to the Promised Land but Scaffolding was one that drew my interest the moment it was announced.  When one knows many Israelis, the subtitles don’t even feel necessary because the body language gives away what the characters are feeling, etc.

Previously selected for the 2017 Cannes Film Festival, Scaffolding will screen during the Chicago International Film Festival on October 21, 2017 at 8 PM.  Subsequent screenings will take place on October 22 and October 24.