Description
Book SynopsisOver the Top Judaism offers criticism of scores of television episodes and films, mainly between 1980 and 2002, that highlight the beliefs and practices of Judaism, real or perceived. Author Elliot Gertel examines parallels and precedents in both media, and organizes the works topically, concluding with the most promising efforts. Chapters on classic television episodes cite interviews with writers and producers from Gertel''s rare oral histories.
Trade ReviewAnyone who thinks that Jewish characters and themes don’t get a look in on TV will probably change their mind after reading Over The Top Judaism, a new book which takes a detailed look at how the small screen has treated Jewish issues over the decades, and how the portrayal of Jews on TV has changed. -- Caroline Westbrook * Something Jewish *
Elliot Gertel has presented a well-written and very readable book that goes beyond the interests of film and TV buffs. It is a reflection of our culture's response to the "others" in society and how they are presented to the general public. The author's approach to sensitive Jewish issues make it an excellent source book for both synagogue discussion groups and interfaith dialogues. -- Bernard Glassman * Conservative Judaism *
This very interesting book well research, well written, and quite readable. It will find a place in many popular culture and communication courses. -- Michael Gesin, Worcester State College * The Journal of Popular Culture *
Why is it importantly to have a book like this? Because more people go to movies and watch the television in one week than listen to all the sermons of all the rabbis combined in one decade. And therefore, we need to understand and to respond to the image of Jews and image of Judaism that these films foster...Rabbi Gertel is eminently fair. -- Rabbi Jack Riemer, editor of The World of the High Holy Days and So That Your Values Live On * Judaism On The Big and Small Screen *
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Preface Chapter 2 Introduction Chapter 3 From the Sublime to the Ridiculous: Distortion of Jewish Observances: Misdirected Life-Cycle Events; Fractured Festivals; Corrupted Jewish Usages and Beliefs; Misguided Mourning and Afterlife; Constrained Conversion Chapter 4 Outlandish Judaisms for Bizarre Jews: TV's Deconstruction of Judaism: Misplaced Judaism; Misapplied Nostalgia; Misrepresented Practices and Sensibilities; Inverted Hostilities Chapter 5 Glimmers of Sanctity on Big and Small Screen: Admirable and Insightful Production Efforts: Heart and Soul; Redemptive Jewish Observances; Dignified Jewish Life and Identity; Conversion; Positive Hereafter Chapter 6 Index
