Unorthodox: Streaming on Netflix

Netflix’s new mini-series “Unorthodox” allows us to reflect on our own comforts and relative freedoms in light of this crazy time. Based on Deborah Feldman’s inspiring true story and autobiography, the series takes us into the most compelling depiction of the Hasidic ultra-orthodox Jewish community of Williamsburg, New York. 

Image credit: Unorthodox poster from Indian Express

The series tells the story of a young woman’s life changing decision to break free of a world she feels trapped in. The incredible performance from Israeli actress Shira Haas lays out the honest emotions of a woman trapped by everyone she loves. Told through the ever-recurring motif of longing for music and the pain of community expectations, Esty is a woman that we can only strive to be as strong willed as. The meticulous cultural detail deserves the praise and awe given to such series as “The Crown”. An example of this includes the dedication to script the series in mostly Yiddish, a protected Jewish dialect. 

It is not by chance that the series is so captivating. I highly recommend watching the behind the scenes clips which capture the making of the series and demonstrate the painstaking attention to detail delivered by everyone involved. Split into four hour-long clips, take your time with this truly exceptional production – my favourite watch of 2020 so far.