What I admire the most about filmmaker Misha Zubarev’s impressive work is the artistry he brings to each project. His films move along seamlessly and the characters are completely believable. Plus, the movies look and sound so professional. And he always picks topics or themes that matter. After watching each one (Cake: A Love Story, 18 and Out, Loneliness), I feel more hopeful about the human race. 

Such is the case with Acheinu, a splendid five-minute movie about two strangers waiting at a bus stop on the side of a road that looks like the middle of nowhere. Though they have never met before, the men interact during this short time in a way that brings about important results, which seems like a miracle to me. And so does the movie itself.    

Two men as different as can be

find common ground in this movie.

In a short time, attitudes change

as we can see up at close range.   

The younger man is hardened by

seeing his brothers fall and die.

The older man looks calm but sad.

Could he have also witnessed bad?

Acheinu boasts actors fine.

And its production values shine.

Sending a message loud and clear,

this movie is a film to cheer.  

Kudos to Itamar Zandini as Amir, the passionate Zionist, and to Jerry Hyman as Yosef, an Orthodox Jew. Without much dialogue, they bring their characters to life with no-nonsense performances that demand attention right away.

Inspired by a real-life story, Acheinu means “our brothers.”  Although filmed in Israel and meant to help bridge the gap among Jews of different backgrounds, this short movie definitely offers universal appeal.      

Acheinu is an Ariella Media production. For more information go to the film’s official site by clicking the link below.

http://ariellamedia.net/portfolio/acheinu/