Italian
‘The Milky Way’ shines in North America: A cinematic journey
A new star in the cinematic sky
The Milky Way, a film by Maya Kenig, has recently been acquired by Greenwich Entertainment for North American distribution. This Israeli gem, which premiered at the Jerusalem Film Festival and won a prize, marks the screen debut of musician Hila Ruach. She stars alongside the seasoned actor Hadas Yaron, known for her roles in “We Were the Lucky Ones” and “Shtisel”.
A tale of struggle and resilience
Premiering last year at the Tallinn Black Nights, where it received the Critics’ Pick Special Jury Mention, The Milky Way tells the compelling story of Tala, a 33-year-old bohemian musician and recent single mother. Tala takes a job at “The Milky Way,” a breast milk dairy catering to wealthy families. This unique setting serves as a backdrop for a narrative that explores themes of motherhood, commodification, and social class.
Watch the trailer for The Milky Way
A metaphor for modern society
Greenwich’s co-president Edward Arentz praised the film, stating, “Maya Kenig found in the commodification of breast milk a perfect metaphor for a wildly inventive social class comedy. The light touch and sparkling cast ensure the tone never turns sour.” This insightful comment highlights the film’s ability to blend humor with poignant social commentary.
Bringing a touching story to new audiences
Producer Maya Fischer expressed her excitement about the film’s North American release, saying she looked forward to sharing “this touching story about breastfeeding and motherhood” with a broader audience. Fischer, along with Gal Greenspan, Roi Kurland, and Alona Refua at Green Productions, produced the film. They were joined by Roni Shamis-Cohen, Inès Daien Dasi, and Yaël Fogiel at Les Films du Poisson in France, with Shani Sror co-producing.
A director with a unique vision
Maya Kenig, also a well-known editor, previously directed Off White Lies, which played at the Berlinale’s Generation14plus. This earlier work revolves around a relationship between a father and his daughter, set against the backdrop of the 2006 war between Israel and Lebanon. Kenig’s ability to weave personal stories with broader social and political themes is evident in both films.
International acclaim and future prospects
Paris-based The Party Film Sales is handling international sales for The Milky Way. The film has already garnered critical acclaim and has been showcased at the Israel Film Center Festival in Manhattan. This international recognition speaks to the universal appeal and relevance of the film’s themes.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
For those who appreciate cinema that delves into the intricacies of human relationships and societal issues, The Milky Way offers a refreshing and thought-provoking experience. The film’s unique premise and strong performances make it a must-watch. As a cinema enthusiast, I find the exploration of motherhood and commodification through the lens of a breast milk dairy both innovative and deeply moving.
A deeper dive into the narrative
The character of Tala, portrayed by Hila Ruach, is a testament to the resilience and strength of single mothers. Her journey from a struggling musician to finding her place in an unconventional job highlights the challenges and triumphs of modern motherhood. The film’s setting, a breast milk dairy, serves as a powerful metaphor for the commodification of natural human experiences in a capitalist society.
Final thoughts
The Milky Way is more than just a film; it’s a commentary on contemporary society, wrapped in a narrative that is both humorous and heartwarming. Maya Kenig’s direction, combined with stellar performances from the cast, ensures that this film will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. For those interested in exploring unique and meaningful cinema, The Milky Way is a journey worth taking.
