Time of Favor

The film "Time of Favor" grapples with questions of identity and agency within contemporary Israeli society.  Because the film takes place within a settlement outside of the dividing line of Israel and Palestine, it offers an interesting glimpse into the ways in which Israeli citizens view their lives and religion.  Rabbi Metzer, who encourages the migration and settlement of Israeli people upon Palestinian land makes the comparison that it is better to be a "dead lion" than "a living dog".  This metaphor truly struck me as powerful as it encapsulates the passion with which these groups feel towards their cause; however, the Rabbi's intentions in the statement are read by Pini as a call for martyrdom.  The true voice of reason and mediation throughout the film is that of Michal who, despite the trauma she has been through, maintains her religion without becoming overwhelmed by extremism.  The lines between idealism and extremism blur within the film and is possibly represented by the contrasts with light and shadow as well as the general inability to see throughout the film.