Thursday, January 22, 2015

New York Jewish Film Festival Spotlight: Natan

I’m excited to cover a few selections from the 24th Annual New York Jewish Film Festival, which runs from January 14th-29th.


Natan
Directed by David Cairns
Screening January 28 at 3:15pm and 8:45pm

This incisive documentary shines a light on the life of Bernard Natan, the man behind Pathé studios, whose rich film history continues to be an influence on cinema today. What is revealed is a story of influence akin to many other film greats who have gone on to be remembered positively warped by efforts of those motivated by anti-Semitism and industry competition to malign Natan, a soldier in the French army in World War I, exposing an alleged resumé of pornography and a whole slew of other attacks. This is an important tribute to Natan’s legacy and his career, but it’s far from an inspirational or uplifting showcase of any of his successes.

No comments: