Synopsis
Two young women — one an Orthodox Jew, the other Muslim — meet and become friends as first-year teachers at a public school in Brooklyn. Over the course of the year they learn they share much in common, not least of which is that they are both going through arranged marriages.
This film is actually based on a true story of an Orthodox Jewish woman named Yuta Silverman who is also an executive producer of this film.
The film started out in the library of a public school where first year teachers had an ice breaking session. Nasira Khalidi, a Muslim of Syrian descent was up first. Followed by an Orthodox Jew Rochel (pronounced: Ro-Hel) Mashenberg. At first, they didn't talk to each other. Their friendship began when some students began to make some prejudicial remarks towards them. Nasira was teaching the class while Rochel was there to assist a blind student in that class as Rochel specialized in special children education and they were called to Principal Jacoby's office because of that. Another thing that strengthen their friendship is that both of them are going through the process of arranged marriage hence the title). Rochel went through a process called sadkhan which involves an arranged date set up by the matchmaker while Nasira went through the usual family coming to her house to meet her family. What I like about this move is that they portray Nasira's family as non-judgmental and not oppressive. Contrary to what's been reported by Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and whatnots, when it comes to arranged marriage, both Nasira's parents did not force her to enter into arranged marriage. They actually want what's best for Nasira and took into account of Nasira's personal opinion. And, when Nasira finally found a match, they gave their blessings seeing how happy Nasira is. Meanwhile, Rochel was struggling in meeting a match of her own. Basically, she was pressured by her family to get married quickly (reminds you guys of something right?) in order to avoid diminished prospects of her sister Naomi.
On another note, this film also criticizes the liberalists and the secularists. For example, Principal Jacoby who is a secular Jew felt that it was her job to modernize both Nasira and Rochel which I think is unnecessary. In some way, I felt that Jacoby was disrespectful of both of their culture and try to force her beliefs to them.
In my opinion, this film is worth a watch. It is a feel good romantic comedy film with a hint of culture. Yes, you guys get to learn some culture, especially when it comes to Orthodox Jewish culture. This film also portrays that people can be modern and keep up with the current time while adhering to their faiths at the same time.
This film shows how individual relationships can transcend age-old divisions and shows that in the search for love, true friends know best.
Rating: 4.5/5
Now, on to the trailer:
Starring: Zoe Lister-Jones, Francis Benhamou, Doris Belack and Mimi Lieber.
For more info, head on to Arranged Official Website
Credits to Cicala Film Works on Youtube
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