New Yiddish movie 'Shttl' is a cinematic triumph that rebuilds a lost Jewish world: review

New Yiddish Movie "Shttl" Rebuilds a Lost Jewish World

Ady Walter stands out as one of the boldest Jewish directors in recent years. His film Shttl is remarkable for its ambition and authenticity. Filmed in Ukraine in 2021 during COVID-19 restrictions and under the looming threat of a Russian invasion, the movie was shot entirely in one continuous take, in black and white, and exclusively in Yiddish.

Unique Production Approach

Walter constructed a full-scale replica of a shtetl, complete with homes, a synagogue, and dirt roads, to create an immersive setting. This attention to detail allowed the film to feel like a seamless, continuous experience.

Casting and Challenges

Moshe Lobel, a newcomer without prior leading roles in feature films, was cast as the protagonist. Walter trusted Lobel’s fit for the role even before meeting him in person, based on phone conversations.

“The story of the film was a Jewish ‘Apocalypse Now,’” Walter told Unpacked. “This was a crazy adventure in wild conditions. We even shot in swamps with mosquitoes in Ukraine.”

Language and Authenticity

Walter was uncompromising about the film’s language, choosing Yiddish despite it limiting the film’s commercial appeal. He emphasized the importance of authenticity in telling this story.

“I don’t come from a Yiddish-speaking family,” Walter said. “But not doing it in Yiddish wasn’t an option. I wanted to make a film where people spoke Yiddish because it was their language at the time.”

Summary

Shttl is a daring cinematic achievement that authentically revives a vanished Jewish culture through innovative filmmaking and unwavering dedication to historical truth.

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Unpacked Unpacked — 2025-10-31

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