Film review: Between the Temples is packed with dark humour and charming eccentricity

This offbeat comedy hinges on delightful performances from Schwartzman and Kane

Between the Temples follows the story of the widowed Ben Gottlieb (Jason Schwartzman), who finds friendship with the free-spirited Carla (Carol Kane). Picture: Sean Price Williams

• Between the Temples 
• ★★★★☆ 
•  Cinematic release

The offbeat comedy-drama Between the Temples (15) follows the story of the widowed and lonely Ben Gottlieb (Jason Schwartzman), who finds friendship and peace in his relationship with the free-spirited Carla (Carol Kane).

Despite the efforts of Ben’s mothers, Meira (Caroline Aaron) and Judith (Dolly de Leon), they struggle to help their 40-something-year-old son move past the death of his wife. Their attempts to intervene by mollycoddling him and introducing him to new women have been unsuccessful.

Ben, a cantor at his local synagogue, has lost the ability to sing and has no regard for appearance. He spends his days in a state of grey oblivion. His life takes a turn when he has a chance encounter with his former music teacher, Carla.

Carla, now in her 70s, voices her desire to have her Bat Mitzvah and requests Ben teach her everything she needs for the ceremony, even though this tradition typically occurs at age 13.

Their rabbi, Bruce (Robert Smigel), encourages Carla to pursue this. He has ulterior motives. He thinks Ben is perfect for his daughter, Gabby (Madeline Weinstein), but he needs Ben to have a purpose again if the match is to work.

At first hesitant, Ben soon becomes fully dedicated to teaching Carla despite her son’s disapproval. As they bond over Torah lessons, their friendship grows stronger. Ben rediscovers a sense of purpose, but is his connection with Carla merely a way to escape his grief?

This offbeat comedy is packed full of dark humour and charming eccentricity, and it hinges on delightful performances from Schwartzman and Kane.

It may not appeal to everyone, but it will be a treasure for its target audience.