Watch Summer of Aviya

Summer of Aviya is a dramatic film set in 1950s Israel that follows the tumultuous life of a young girl, Aviya, as she navigates the challenges of growing up in a patriarchal society. The film is directed by Eli Cohen and is based on the autobiographical novel by Gila Almagor. Aviya (played by Kaipo Cohen) is a bright and imaginative eight-year-old girl who lives with her single mother, Henya (Gila Almagor), and her younger brother, Gadi (Arik Lavie), in a small coastal town. Her father, a Holocaust survivor, is absent from their lives, and Henya struggles to make ends meet as a seamstress. Despite their financial struggles and her mother's difficult personality, Aviya finds solace in her vivid imagination and her love of books.

The film covers a significant summer in Aviya's life, when she is sent to stay with her father's family in a rural community. The trip is supposed to be a chance for Aviya to connect with her roots and to spend time with her father's family. But when she arrives, she finds herself confronted with a hostile environment. Her grandmother (Rivka Michaeli) is harsh and critical, and her aunt (Juliano Merr) is resentful of Aviya's presence in their home. Aviya's uncle (Uri Zohar), however, takes a shine to the young girl and tries to help her navigate her new environment.

As Aviya struggles with the challenges of her summer stay, she also deals with the legacy of her father's traumatic experiences during the Holocaust. While her mother tries to protect her from the truth, Aviya begins to piece together the fragments of her father's story and tries to understand how his past has affected their family.

The film is notable for its exploration of themes like trauma, memory, and family dynamics. The character of Aviya is a particularly compelling one, as she embodies both the innocence and the resilience of childhood. Her relationship with her mother, a complex and often difficult character, is also a central focus of the film.

In addition to its thematic depth, Summer of Aviya is also a visually striking film. The Israeli landscape, with its stark beauty and harsh contrasts, provides a stunning backdrop for the story. The performances are also noteworthy, especially from the young Kaipo Cohen, who brings a remarkable depth and nuance to the role of Aviya.

Overall, Summer of Aviya is a deeply affecting film that explores complex themes with sensitivity and insight. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Israeli cinema, coming-of-age stories, or stories about the lasting effects of trauma on families.