With Slight Steps

בדילוגים קלים | Guy Hodes | Israel, 2020 | Hebrew (English subtitles) | Documentary short | 29m | DCP | IMDB | Distributor/Sales: Sam Spiegel Film & Television School | Festival marketing sample: DocAviv 2020 | Trailer

Description: Tirza Hodes used to direct an annual folk dancing festival at Kibbutz Dalia. At 97, she still teaches dancing, but now it is in Germany, where she spends most of her time. Guy Hodes is surprised to be contacted by a Kibbutz seeking footage shot by his grandmother for a celebratory event they are organising. That leads to a discovery of a Facebook fan page for her with 800 followers. During her visit to Israel, he learns about her legacy.

Merits: Even now, Tirza has a powerful and charming presence. Humble about her accomplishments, she is gently dismissive of her grandson’s enthusiasm. Yet her demeanour reveals a deep melancholy for an Israel that has been lost to her and her contemporaries. This film was a contestant in the DocAviv Student Film Competition.

Rating: Suitable for all audiences.

Programming consideration: Will appeal to some Israeli expats.