The hit Netflix series “Unorthodox” presents a moving yet challenging view of an insular Jewish community and one woman’s quest for self-determination. Tradition and freedom, community and the individual, the Holocaust and Jewish celebrations of life add up to an emotional experience that has connected with millions of viewers all over the world.
The International Institute for Secular Humanistic Judaism hosted a special conversation with actor Eli Rosen, “Reb Yossele” in “Unorthodox” and a special consultant to the project: translating scripts, coaching actors and ensuring authenticity in costumes and rituals.
Rosen himself was born and raised speaking Yiddish in a Hasidic Jewish community in Brooklyn, which he left to pursue life, liberty and a law degree. He is currently managing director of New Yiddish Rep theater company in New York City. Rosen was joined in conversation by Rabbi Adam Chalom, Ph.D., Dean for North America of the IISHJ. Together they discussed the experiences of those leaving Orthodoxy, the most powerful themes in Unorthodox, and how the quest for personal freedom is a universal story.
This program was co-sponsored by Unitarian Universalists for Jewish Awareness.