Watch The Angel Levine

The Angel Levine is a 1970 American drama film that stars Zero Mostel, Harry Belafonte, and Ida Kaminska in the leading roles. The movie revolves around a Jewish tailor, Morris Mishkin, who is forced to confront his own mortality and the realities of faith, compassion, and love when he meets an otherworldly angel named Alexander Levine. The story opens with Morris, a well-meaning and hardworking tailor, struggling with an illness that has taken a toll on his family's finances and his own spirits. Morris is also distraught over the loss of his son, who died in the Korean War. One day, he comes across Levine, a strange and mysterious man who claims to be an angel sent by God to help Morris in his time of need. Despite initially dismissing Levine as a madman, Morris warms up to him as the angel performs miracles, offering him financial help and improving his health. Along the way, Morris also meets a black activist named Joshua, played by Belafonte, who becomes a confidant and friend to him. As Morris and Levine's relationship deepens, the tailor realizes that the angel's true purpose is to help him find inner peace and restore his faith in humanity. However, complications arise as Morris falls in love with Levine's cousin, Fanny (Kaminska), who disapproves of Morris's agnosticism and the angel's interference in his life. The Angel Levine tackles themes of faith, redemption, and mortality with sensitivity and nuance. The movie features standout performances from the lead actors, especially Mostel, who conveys Morris's inner turmoil and gradual transformation with vulnerability and authenticity. The film's subtextual commentaries on racial tensions, religious prejudice, and social justice add depth and relevance to the story. The film's beautiful, understated cinematography captures the New York City of the time, with its gritty streets and bustling Jewish neighborhoods. The soundtrack, featuring Belafonte's soulful rendition of the title song, provides a poignant backdrop to Morris's journey. Overall, The Angel Levine is a thought-provoking drama that balances sentimentality with realism, exploring timeless themes of humanity and spirituality. The movie's subtle yet powerful storytelling will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.