My comments after watching the Greek/Israeli film "Magic Men"

I’m glad That Chaiflicks acquired this film or I wouldn’t have seen this 2014 film. It’s not perfect – any one of best films – but it was certainly worth the 100 minutes to watch it.

The basics (no spoilers from ever!) are that an “elderly” Jew (Avraham – plated by Makram Khory – winner of an Israeli “Oscar” for his performance) - who was born in Greece but lived in Israel returns to Greece for an award from a small town. (I’m not sure what award was for but it doesn’t matter for the plot) He is a magician (for fun), but he makes cheese for his living. Along for the journey is estranged son who is not only Hassidic but a “rap artist” to boot (think Matisyahu) though that (the rap thing) is also not relevant to the film. While in Greece Avraham seeks out an older man who hid him during the Holocaust (another subplot). The father and son are like oil and water and their relationship (and it’s resolution) are the backbone here. There are a few side characters along the way but I won’t reveal them – or the ending – here.

I will reveal one thing that may affect viewers. There is a scene with female nudity. It’s natural but you should know.

The other thing to know is that the film is in Greek as well as Hebrew and English. The thing is that there are English subtitles (very easy to read) even when the dialogue is English!. No, it’s not closed captioning. I’m also not sure if the English dialog is not dubbed – the lips – at least for me are not always synched.

You’ll get used to though as time goes on.

I hope this “mini-review” guides you as to whether to watch this or not.