Every Time We Say Goodbye (1986)

In 1986, at the height of a decade marked by the search for new forms of dramatic art, Moshé Mizrahi presented the film “We Always Say Goodbye.” This is a profound drama that immerses the viewer in the atmosphere of World War II, but views it through the prism of personal experiences and forbidden love in Jerusalem.

Plot

The plot unfolds in Jerusalem during World War II. The main character is a pilot who, after recovering from an injury, receives leave. During this seemingly calm time, he meets a young Jewish woman whose beauty and character immediately captivate him. However, their nascent connection faces an insurmountable obstacle: the girl belongs to an extremely conservative clan of Sephardic Jews, whose traditions and customs do not tolerate external interference. The family is categorically against this union, which forces the lovers to make a difficult choice between duty, traditions, and their own feelings.

Why watch it

• Deep dive into historical context: Jerusalem during World War II creates a unique backdrop for personal drama, where global upheavals intertwine with the fates of individuals.
• Exploration of cultural conflict: The film raises the theme of the clash between traditions and personal freedom, demonstrating how strict family customs can become a barrier to happiness.
• Tragedy of forbidden love: This is a classic story of feelings opposed by the world, forcing characters to make painful decisions and face the consequences of their choices.
• Ensemble acting: The film features an impressive cast of performers, including Jacques Cohen, Moshe Ivgy, Anat Atzmon, Caroline Goodall, Dafna Armoni, Dan Muggia, Orna Porat, Cristina Marsillach, and David Menachem, whose participation promises a convincing portrayal of complex human characters.
• Moshé Mizrahi's directorial style: Known for his attention to the details of human relationships and social conflicts, Mizrahi skillfully directs this emotionally charged story.

Themes

“We Always Say Goodbye” touches upon universal themes: the conflict between personal desire and public duty, the power of traditions versus all-consuming passion, and the inevitability of choice and its consequences. It is a reflection on how wars and cultural barriers shape individual destinies, and how difficult it is to fight for one's own happiness when an entire world rises against you.

Editor's opinion

“We Always Say Goodbye” is not just a historical drama, but a poignant story of love destined for struggle. The film promises emotional tension, deep character development, and a serious look at eternal questions of human relationships, set within an exceptional historical and cultural context.