Policeman
(Hashoter)

Nadav Lapid’s film surprised everyone by its unscheduled synchrony effect. It was released just before the great demonstrations held last spring in Israel to protest against social inequalities and the high cost of living. The authorities restricted it to an adult audience, fearing it would strike an unwanted chord with the youth. Still, there is more to it than such an amazing coincidence. Yaron (Yiftach Klein) is a member of an elite antiterrorist section of the Israeli police, made up of tough men who enjoy virile comradeship (such as during a barbecue party) and an unfailing mutual loyalty (when faced with one member’s illness). About to become a father, he is getting ready to welcome his daughter by setting himself as a shield against a constant external threat (which the film never shows). In the second part, a sudden twist introduces Yaron and his virile armada to a different internal reality, in the form of another group whose members are as brave as they are inexperienced (sexually, emotionally, socially and politically indeterminate). The mission will not leave Yaron unscathed. Navad Lapid’s film is both powerful and bold. Jérôme Baron