I'll start and say it directly – "The Vanishing Soldier" is a film that simply doesn't let go of you for a moment. Danny Rosenberg, one of the most interesting creators in contemporary Israeli cinema, proves his unique talent once again in his new film. After the impressive success of "The Death of Cinema and My Father Too," which was well-received at the Cannes Film Festival and won the top prize at the Jerusalem Film Festival, Rosenberg returns with a complex human drama that manages to touch the most sensitive points of Israeli society.
For 101 intense minutes, we follow Shlomi (Ido Taqo), an 18-year-old soldier who escapes from the battlefield in Gaza and embarks on a journey back home. What starts as a simple desertion quickly escalates when the army commanders are convinced he was captured in the heat of battle. His photo is about to be published in all the media, and Shlomi finds himself running not only from the soldiers he thinks are chasing him, but also from his own identity, which has become a trap.
Ido Taco embodies the character of Shlomi with exceptional talent, managing to blend all the contradictions in the hero's personality. Through his subtle mimicry and unapologetic speech, Taco creates a complex character – on one hand, a warrior bearing a heavy burden, and on the other, a young boy wanting to be close to his beloved. The credibility he brings to the role is one of the cornerstones of the film, and it is enhanced by the stunning cinematography of David Strazmeister, who won the Ophir Award for his outstanding work.
Rosenberg, who co-wrote the script with Amir Kaliger, manages to tell a complex story within a 24-hour timeframe. The use of the urban space of Tel Aviv as the setting adds a touch of realism and urgency to the story. What starts as a simple escape on a morning, evolves into a complex journey of self-discovery. Alongside Taco, the film is supported by the impressive performances of Mika Reiss as Shiri, Efrat Ben Tzur as Shlomi's mother, and Vicky Dayan, who plays the grandmother in a particularly strong supporting role.
"The Missing Soldier" is much more than just a movie about a soldier who deserted. This is a story about coming of age, about the cost of choices, and about the tension between duty and desire. The film succeeds in addressing weighty issues through a personal and human story, blending tragic and comedic elements in a precise balance. With 11 nominations for the Ophir Awards, including Best Film, and participation in the prestigious Locarno and Busan festivals, "The Vanishing Soldier" proves that it is possible to make Israeli cinema that is both thrilling and captivating as well as intelligent and profound.
This is a piece that grabs you from the very first moment and doesn't let go until the end, leaving you with many thoughts long after the lights come on."The Missing Soldier," which was supposed to be released in November and was postponed due to the war, is now coming to theaters. The prolonged wait only sharpens the fact that this is a film unafraid to tackle the most difficult questions of Israeli society. This is a work that has proven itself at festivals around the world, and now it's time for the Israeli audience to meet it as well.
(4 out of 5 stars)