BLISS

"Wry...empathy-infused story"
Chicago International Film Festival

"Superb... leaves plenty to ponder"
The Film Experience

"He (Gabay) ... get(s) better with every role he plays."
The Jerusalem Post

11:00 AM Sunday, February 23rd 2025 to 1:15 PM Sunday, February 23rd
Center for Contemporary Arts

Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival and nominated for three Israeli Academy Awards, Bliss explores the fragile equilibrium of an older couple’s relationship as they navigate love, aging, and family obligations. Starring Israeli film legend Sasson Gabay (Shtisel, Karaoke, The Band’s Visit) and Assi Levy (Aviva My Love), Sassi (Gabay) and Effi (Levy) are forced to continue working to pay off their son’s gambling debts. As they navigate challenges with health, sexuality, and even betrayal, their grandson, who is going through his own personal relationship issues, comes to live with them. Suddenly a man reinserts himself into Effi’s life by bringing up secrets from her past that threaten to destroy the “blissful” family unit which is her key to survival during difficult these times.