In every generation there’s a spiritual revival. Many baby boomers, for example, explored Eastern traditions — yoga, Zen Buddhism, etc. — in their quest for spiritual fulfillment. Steven Bram, director of Kabbalah Me, now available on DVD from First Run Features, chose to delve into that good old-time Jewish mysticism, which is known as Kabbala. Traditionally, Jewish men would begin Kabbala studies only after many years of Torah and Talmud studies. In Kabbalah Me, co-directed by Judah Lazarus, Bram reconnects with the Hasidic branch of his family. On the advice of rabbis, he eventually travels to Israel, where he experiences an emotional connection to the faith of his ancestors at the Western Wall. The DVD includes bonus shorts that elucidate facets of Kabbala. — M.S.
(American Jewish World, 4.24.15)
