Ep 2. Episode 2

Set in the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community of Jerusalem, Shtisel follows the life of the titular family, as they navigate through relationships, work, and their religious obligations.

Season 1, episode 2, titled "Episode 2," picks up after the dramatic finale of the first episode, where Akiva Shtisel, a 26-year-old artist and son of a rabbi, is seen falling for an older, unmarried woman named Elisheva. The second episode reintroduces the rest of the family, focusing primarily on Akiva's father, Shulem Shtisel, a widowed and aging rabbi.

The episode starts with a scene of Shulem's older married daughter Giti, praying in synagogue. She is interrupted by her brother Lippe, who informs her that her husband is not coming back home tonight and has gone to visit his mistress. Giti is visibly upset, and Lippe advises her to pray for her husband's return. As she walks home, she bumps into Shulem, who offers to walk her back to her apartment. It's clear that the relationship between Giti and her father is strained, and they exchange a few curt words before saying goodbye.

Once back home, Shulem is greeted by his younger son, Zvi Arye, who is still unmarried and struggling to find a job. Zvi Arye asks for money to pay for rent, and Shulem advises him to get his act together, to which he retorts, "Look who’s talking." This sets the tone for the episode and highlights the strained familial relationships within the Shtisel household.

The focus then shifts to Akiva, who is eagerly waiting for Elisheva's phone call after their first meeting. He's seen staring at his phone, and when it finally does ring, he rushes to answer it, only to be disappointed that it's from his younger sister, Ruchami. Ruchami informs him that their father has been invited to give a sermon in a neighboring town, and that he will have to step in and lead the prayers for Sabbath. Akiva is hesitant and anxious, but eventually agrees to do it.

Fast forward to Sabbath night, where the Shtisel family is seen sitting down to dinner. Shulem is noticeably quiet and brooding, and it's revealed that he's holding a grudge against his son Lippe, who is a failed businessman and is now living off his parents' money. The family goes through the motions of Sabbath prayers, with Akiva leading the prayers, stumbling through the Hebrew prayers, and asking for his siblings' help when he gets lost. The scene is both funny and heartwarming, and shows the family coming together.

The episode then explores Shulem's relationship with his late wife, who died of cancer. He is seen taking out a photo album filled with pictures of her and reminiscing about their life together. He's overcome with emotion and starts praying for her, saying, "God, please take me too." This scene is especially poignant, as it highlights the deep love that Shulem had for his wife, and the pain he still feels, years after her death.

As the Sabbath comes to a close, Akiva is once again seen waiting for Elisheva's phone call. When it finally does come, he rushes to answer it, only to be interrupted by a call from his father, who needs to talk to him urgently. The episode ends with Shulem telling Akiva that he needs to end his relationship with Elisheva, as she's not someone he should be getting involved with.

Overall, episode 2 of Shtisel is a masterclass in storytelling, with its beautifully realized characters, intricate plotlines, and heartfelt moments. It continues to explore the themes of family, love, and religion, and sets up the rest of the season with its emotionally charged cliffhanger.