Film recommendations?

[liv]

It's the last bar mitzvah class of term on Monday, and we're supposed to be watching a film. It's part of their curriculum to watch a couple of Jewish films and discuss them, and it seems a nice way to celebrate the end of term.

However, my mind is absolutely blanking on what we should watch. So can anyone think of a good Jewish-themed film? I would really prefer it not to be about the Holocaust, because there should be more to Jewish education than trying to guilt kids because lots of people died. Also I'd rather avoid rose-tinted nostalgia about pre-emancipation Europe (such as Fiddler on the Roof and Yentl), if possible.

It also needs to be suitable for 12-year-olds, bright, mature 12yos, but still 12. I'm more worried about themes that are too complex for them to connect to their experience, than about the odd naughty word or reference to sexuality (Swedish people seem to be a lot less prudish about kids discussing that sort of thing than Americans anyway). Generally, I want something that is not only about a Jewish theme, but at least somewhat in line with the values that I am trying to teach.

I also have to find said film in a rental shop or in the synagogue library between now and Monday, which might be a challenge. So I need as many suggestions as possible in case I can't find the right one!

Comments

[curious-reader.livejournal.com]

I saw a book at the Rabbi's house. It also plays during the Holocaust time. It is called "Walking with wolves". I could imagine there is a film to it. A child escapes from the Nazis and hides in the forest where he or she is looked after by the wolves.