Close to Home 2007
Directed by
Dalia Hager
Made by
IFC First Take
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Close to Home (2007). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Mirit, portrayed by Naama Schendar, is a thoughtful and introspective young woman hailing from a respectable family, who makes the significant decision to enlist in the IDF. She aspires to take on responsibilities that bear weight and import, seeking a role where she can exert influence. However, her hopes are met with a stark reality when she is assigned to a Border Police unit composed of female soldiers, a group characterized by its eclectic mix of personnel and an alarming lack of adequate training.
The unit’s primary task involves checking the identification cards of individuals passing through the bustling streets of Jerusalem, under the belief that such vigilance could potentially thwart terrorist acts. Yet, despite their seemingly vital role, the effectiveness of this unit remains questionable. In practice, the environment is rife with tension, as the female soldiers often find themselves harassing unsuspecting passersby, reflecting a pervasive lack of seriousness and commitment toward their duties. Service in this capacity devolves into a tedious and disheartening experience for many.
Mirit finds herself particularly challenged in her partnership with Smadar Sayar, a fellow soldier who starkly contrasts her own disposition. Smadar is a force of exuberance, pushing Mirit to break free from her shell of shyness and engage with the men they encounter along their patrols. This unexpected urge leads Mirit into precarious situations, including a flirtation that culminates in an ill-advised dance with hotel guests she is ostensibly meant to be guarding. Her actions do not go unnoticed, and as a consequence, she finds herself incarcerated in military prison.
However, amidst the complications of their service, Mirit and Smadar navigate through profound crises that serve to fortify their bond. One fateful day brings an explosion in the Nahalat Shiva neighborhood, a moment that propels them into chaos and embodies the dangers of their situation. Additionally, they face a harrowing near-lynching scenario when they interact with a man who refuses to provide his ID, an event that tests their resolve and partnership. Through these shared adversities, a deep and resilient friendship blossoms between Mirit and Smadar, binding them together as they confront the complexities of their roles and the tumultuous reality surrounding them.
Timeline
Track the key events of Close to Home (2007) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Mirit Enlists in the IDF
Mirit, a serious and melancholic young woman from a good family, decides to enlist in the Israel Defense Forces. With hopes of serving in a position of responsibility, she eagerly anticipates making a difference.
Assignment to Border Police Unit
Upon completing her basic training, Mirit is assigned to a Border Police unit of female soldiers. This unit is characterized by a lack of proper training and cohesion, as the personnel are quite diverse in background and attitude.
First Day on Patrol
On her first day on patrol in Jerusalem, Mirit and her unit are tasked with checking the identification cards of passersby. They are told that their work is crucial for preventing terrorist attacks, but Mirit feels a sense of futility in the task.
Struggles with the Unit
Mirit faces challenges adapting to her patrol partner, Smadar, who embraces a carefree and flirtatious attitude. Their contrasting personalities create tension, as Mirit finds it difficult to connect with her partner.
Pressure to Flirt
Smadar encourages Mirit to step out of her comfort zone and flirt with men they encounter during patrol. Mirit's initial reluctance is challenged as she navigates the pressure to conform to Smadar's expectations.
Dancing Incident
While on duty, Mirit succumbs to temptation and dances with guests at a nearby hotel. Her joyful moment is short-lived, as her commanders catch her in the act, leading to serious repercussions.
Military Prison Sentencing
Following the dancing incident, Mirit is sentenced to military prison. This punishment serves as a harsh lesson about the consequences of her actions and the somber nature of her military service.
Crisis in Nahalat Shiva
During a patrol in the Nahalat Shiva neighborhood, Mirit and Smadar face a life-threatening situation when a bomb explodes nearby. This terrifying experience tests their courage and resolve as soldiers.
Preventing a Lynching
Mirit and Smadar respond to a tense situation where a man refuses to show his ID. They work together to prevent a near-lynch, showcasing their growing teamwork and quick thinking under pressure.
Emerging Friendship
Through the crises they experience together, Mirit and Smadar develop a strong friendship. They learn from one another, and Mirit finds herself becoming more comfortable and assertive.
Reflections on Military Service
As Mirit looks back on her time in the Border Police unit, she grapples with the significance of her experiences. The challenges, friendships, and moments of danger define her perspective on responsibility and influence.
Conclusion of Military Service
Eventually, Mirit's service in the IDF comes to an end. She reflects on how her time in the military has shaped her character and perspective, recognizing both the struggles and the bonds formed over shared experiences.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Close to Home (2007) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Mirit (Naama Schendar)
Mirit is a serious and melancholic young woman striving for a meaningful role in the IDF. Her character development is marked by her struggles against peer pressure, her growing friendship with Smadar, and her quest for purpose in a job that feels unfulfilling.
Smadar (Smadar Sayar)
Smadar is Mirit's boisterous patrol partner who represents a stark contrast to Mirit's reserved personality. She is adventurous and pushes Mirit out of her comfort zone, playing a crucial role in helping Mirit find her voice and assert herself.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Close to Home (2007), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The events of the movie unfold in contemporary times, within the context of modern military service in Israel. This setting allows the story to explore the complexities of identity, duty, and personal connection amidst the pressures of security and conflict.
Location
Jerusalem, Nahalat Shiva
The movie takes place in the bustling city of Jerusalem, a city known for its rich history and cultural significance. The Nahalat Shiva neighborhood serves as a backdrop for critical events, including moments of tension and danger that highlight the challenges faced by the Border Police unit.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Close to Home (2007). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Friendship
The theme of friendship resonates deeply throughout the film, particularly in the relationship between Mirit and Smadar. Despite their different backgrounds and personalities, they find common ground through shared challenges, ultimately forming a bond that helps them navigate their difficult circumstances.
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Duty vs. Morality
The film delves into the conflict between duty and personal ethics as the characters grapple with their roles in the Border Police. This theme is illustrated by Mirit's struggle to reconcile her responsibilities with her moral beliefs amidst a dysfunctional unit.
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Isolation
Isolation is a prominent theme as Mirit navigates her military service, feeling disconnected not only from the mission but also from her unit members. The pressures of their tasks often lead to a collective sense of alienation, emphasizing the emotional toll of their roles.
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