Considering the current conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, the release of Joseph Cedars debut is timely indeed. It looks at the troubles in the Middle East from the perspectives of the leader of a religious corps in the Israeli Army (Aki Avni) and his best friend, a rabbinical scholar (Edan Alterman), who are both in love with the same girl (Tinkerbell).
While beginning as a drama exploring the place of love, duty, religion and loyalty in such a complex political situation, Cedars film soon opts to pursue the romance and thriller elements of the plot rather then engage with the questions it has posed. Unfortunately, the characterisation is flimsy and the romantic subplot essentially defunct; the thrills are promised but never materialise. Cedars dubious directing makes this unessential viewing.