By Reporter staff
The Binghamton Jewish Film Fest will hold a virtual showing of the film “The Matchmaker.” Matthew Johnson, professor of psychology and director of clinical training at Binghamton University, will moderate a Zoom discussion of the film on Sunday, December 28, at 7 pm. People will be able to register for links to the film and discussion by clicking here.. Registration is due by Wednesday, December 24. The film will be available for viewing from Thursday-Sunday, December 25-28. The film is in Hebrew with English subtitles.
“The Matchmaker” tells the story of Arik, a teenage boy growing up in Haifa in 1968, who begins working for Yankele Bride, a matchmaker and Holocaust survivor. Mixing comedy and drama, the coming-of-age story follows not only his employment with Yankele, but what occurs after he falls in love with Tamara, who has just returned from the U.S. and wants to discuss women’s rights, free love, and rock and roll. 
The film received seven nominations for Israel’s Ophir Awards in 2010, including Best Picture. Adir Miller won in the Best Actor category and Maya Dagan won in the Best Actress category. Other awards include Audience Award for Best Feature Film at the Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival and the Silver Plaque Award at the Chicago International Film Festival.
“‘The Matchmaker’ is a unique story that gives the viewers a look at life in Israel during the 1960s,” said Shelley Hubal, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Binghamton, which sponsors the Film Fest. “Join us for a film that will both bring a smile to your face and warm your heart.”