Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem 2015

Viviane Amsalem, portrayed by Ronit Elkabetz, has spent more than twenty years in marriage with her husband, Elisha, played by Simon Abkarian. Seeking her independence, Viviane approaches a religious court to obtain a gett, as the couple has been living apart and she no longer wishes to remain married to him. Despite Elisha’s hope for reconciliation and his request for her to return home, the court of rabbis mandates a trial reunion for the pair, which Viviane endeavors to undertake.

As time passes, her attempts to make the marriage work are overshadowed by deep-seated discord, prompting her to firmly stand for separation and initiating the divorce trial. Over several years, Viviane’s quest for freedom becomes increasingly strenuous, with Elisha consistently stalling the process. While he attempts to present himself as a dedicated husband and devout individual, testimonies from witnesses uncover a different story—revealing Elisha’s vengefulness and Viviane’s long-standing discontent in their relationship.

Tensions escalate when Elisha’s brother, who serves as his representative, claims that Viviane’s lawyer, Carmel, harbors feelings for her, igniting a feud between the two brothers. As Elisha seeks to evade more court appearances, he is ultimately held in contempt of court. After much back-and-forth, he reluctantly agrees to end the marriage only if the rabbinical panel mandates it. Yet, even when the panel intervenes, he refuses to consent to the divorce.

After a while, Viviane and Elisha make their way back to court, having seemingly reached a divorce agreement. Witnesses gather to sign the gett, and the rabbis present the document to Elisha, instructing him to hand it to Viviane. However, during the proceedings, Elisha falters, hesitating to declare that Viviane is free to pursue other relationships. This results in the couple being ejected from the court.

In a desperate last plea, Elisha requests a private moment with Viviane, proposing that he will grant her the divorce if she vows never to engage with another man. After some reflection, Viviane makes the promise, leading them back to the courtroom to finally complete their divorce proceedings.