Watch Jewish Luck

Jewish Luck is a 1925 Soviet film that tells the story of a young Jewish man named Sholem Aleichem who lives in a shtetl, a small village in Eastern Europe. Despite his poverty, Sholem is content with his simple life, but his parents are eager to see him improve his financial situation by any means necessary. One day, a stranger arrives in the shtetl and offers to sell a winning lottery ticket to Sholem. The ticket costs him all his savings, but Sholem's parents believe it is a small price to pay for the chance at wealth. However, when Sholem realizes that the ticket is a fake, he sets out to seek revenge on the con artist who sold it to him.

As Sholem begins his journey, he encounters a wide array of characters, each with their own unique stories and motivations. He meets a wealthy merchant who offers to help him, but only if he abandons his Jewish identity and converts to Christianity. He also meets a group of bandits who try to rob him, but are ultimately won over by his charm and humor.

Throughout his travels, Sholem remains true to his Jewish identity and values, never wavering in his faith despite the challenges he faces. He continues to pursue justice and seek revenge for the con artist who swindled him out of his savings.

The film is notable for its portrayal of Jewish life in Eastern Europe in the early twentieth century. It draws on the traditions, customs, and language of the shtetl, as well as the Jewish concept of luck and destiny. It also presents a nuanced view of Jewish identity, showing how it can be both a source of strength and a point of conflict.

The cast of the film is led by Solomon Mikhoels, a Soviet actor and director who was one of the most prominent figures in the Yiddish theatre. Mikhoels also went on to become an influential cultural leader in Soviet Jewish life, until his tragic death in 1948 at the hands of Stalin's secret police.

Moisei Goldblat and Tamara Adelgeym co-star in the film, giving compelling performances as Sholem's parents. The film's director, Aleksandr Granovsky, was known for his work in Jewish theatre and his dedication to preserving Yiddish culture.

Jewish Luck was released at a time when the Soviet government was actively promoting Yiddish culture and literature. The film reflects this emphasis, presenting a positive view of Jewish identity and values, while also addressing issues of poverty and social injustice.

Overall, Jewish Luck is a charming, witty, and poignant film that offers a rare glimpse into the world of Eastern European Jewish life. Its themes and messages remain relevant today, making it a valuable piece of cinema history.