Seder-Masochism

Definitely one of the zaniest films on this year’s program! Seder-Masochism tells the well known story and Moses’ exit from Egypt, but in a way you absolutely have not seen before: Employing a range of different animation techniques, in combination with generous amounts of American popular music from various times. The Jewish tradition of pesach is retold via conversations between secular filmmaker Nina Paley and her dad, who reflect upon what role this type of religious rituals and legends has played in their lives.

Parallel to the story of Moses and the Egyptians, Paley also focuses great humour and serenity on the ancient female goddesses and their eventually futile fight against the patriarchal and monotheistic religions of our time. This is the animated musical about the Old Testament that you didn’t know you needed in your life!