The Human Resources Manager 2011
Directed by
Eran Riklis
Made by
"DIA" Productions GmbH & Co. KG
Plot Summary
Yulia, a foreign worker from Eastern Europe who came to work in Israel, is murdered in a terrorist attack in Jerusalem. Her body remains unclaimed in the morgue. Based on her belongings, it becomes clear that she worked at a Jerusalem bakery (Berman’s Bakery), and a journalist from a local Jerusalem newspaper (played by Guri Alfi) accuses the bakery of being indifferent to her fate. The owner of the bakery (Gila Almagor), known as “The Widow,” instructs the human resources manager (Mark Ivanir) to take the deceased back to her homeland for burial.
The film follows the journey of the human resources manager from Jerusalem to the deceased’s hometown, until she is laid to rest. He is accompanied by the journalist, and in the destination country in Romania, they are joined by the deputy Israeli consul (Julian Negulesco), who is married to the consul (Rozina Cambos), and Yulia’s young son (Noah Silver).
The film’s plot faithfully mirrors that of the book. The main significant difference between the two is that in the book, the owner of the bakery is a man, “The Old Man,” whereas in the film, it is a woman, “The Widow.”
Timeline
Yulia's Arrival in Israel
Yulia, a foreign worker from Eastern Europe, arrives in Israel seeking better opportunities. She starts working at Berman's Bakery in Jerusalem, hoping to build a new life for herself.
Tragic Murder
Tragically, Yulia's dreams are cut short when she is murdered in a terrorist attack in Jerusalem. This shocking event sends ripples through the community and highlights the dangers faced by foreign workers.
Yulia's Body in the Morgue
Following her murder, Yulia's body remains unclaimed in the morgue. Her belongings provide clues about her life in Israel, prompting concern over her fate.
Journalist's Investigation
A local journalist, played by Guri Alfi, becomes interested in Yulia's story and begins to investigate. He accuses Berman's Bakery, where Yulia worked, of neglecting the situation and not caring for their employee.
The Widow Takes Action
Gila Almagor, the owner of the bakery known as 'The Widow,' instructs her human resources manager to arrange for Yulia's body to be taken back to her homeland. This decision reflects her recognition of the tragedy and her responsibilities toward her employee.
Journey Begins
The human resources manager sets out from Jerusalem to Yulia's hometown in Romania. Accompanying him is the journalist, who aims to uncover more about Yulia's background and story during their travels.
Meeting the Deputy Consul
Upon arriving in Romania, the duo is joined by the deputy Israeli consul, Julian Negulesco. His presence adds a level of diplomacy to the situation, highlighting the international implications of Yulia's story.
Unexpected Companion
Yulia's young son is also introduced, adding a poignant element to the narrative. His presence underscores the personal loss and tragedy experienced by Yulia's family back home.
Cultural and Personal Connections
As they travel, the human resources manager and the journalist explore the cultural significance of Yulia's life. They reflect on her sacrifices and the connections between East and West.
Arriving at Final Destination
The group finally reaches Yulia's hometown, a moment filled with mixed emotions. They prepare for a burial that acknowledges her life and legacy, bringing closure to her tragic story.
Burial Ceremony
A heartfelt burial ceremony takes place, offering a chance for the community and Yulia's family to honor her memory. The attendees reflect on her struggles and contributions as a foreign worker.
Aftermath and Reflection
In the aftermath of the burial, the human resources manager and the journalist reflect on the journey they took. They comprehend the broader implications of Yulia's story, including issues of migrant workers in Israel.
Return to Israel
The human resources manager and the journalist return to Israel, changed by their experiences. They carry with them the memories of Yulia and the importance of acknowledging the lives of those who often go unnoticed.
Media Coverage
The story of Yulia's tragic fate gains media attention back in Israel. It brings to light the struggles faced by foreign workers and opens up conversations about their treatment in society.
Legacy and Change
Yulia's story prompts changes in policies towards foreign workers in Israel. Her legacy continues to influence discussions, creating a lasting impact on the community she was part of.
Characters
Mark Ivanir
The human resources manager is depicted as a reluctant yet honorable figure tasked with a challenging mission. Throughout the film, he evolves from a bureaucratic worker into a compassionate individual who grapples with the implications of his actions. His journey reflects not only a professional obligation but also a personal awakening to the value of human life.
The Widow (Gila Almagor)
The owner of Berman's Bakery, known as 'The Widow,' is a strong-willed and pragmatic character who faces the consequences of the tragedy that befalls her employee. Her directive to send Yulia home for burial reflects her understanding of responsibility beyond business, shedding light on the humanity within the harsh realities of life.
Journalist (Guri Alfi)
The journalist serves as the societal mirror, whose accusations challenge the bakery's indifference toward Yulia's fate. His character embodies the struggle of seeking truth in a world often coated in bureaucracy, and he plays a pivotal role in driving the human resources manager toward a deeper understanding of the implications of loss.
Setting
Time period
The film addresses contemporary social issues, reflecting the challenges faced by foreign workers in an increasingly complex world. It also portrays the bureaucratic and cultural obstacles encountered during the journey, emphasizing the timeless nature of loss and the need for closure.
Location
Jerusalem, Romania
Jerusalem, a city with profound historical and cultural significance, serves as the backdrop for the film, representing both hope and tragedy. Known for its diverse population and iconic landmarks, it is a place where the conflict between lived experiences and global issues is palpable. Romania, the final destination for the protagonist's journey, adds a layer of Yulia's personal history and cultural roots.
Themes
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Loss
The theme of loss permeates the film, as Yulia's tragic death leaves a void in her community and among those who knew her. It explores the emotional toll on the human resources manager and highlights how bureaucracy often impedes the grieving process. The journey to return Yulia to her homeland symbolizes a quest for reconciliation with loss and a hope for dignity.
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Human Connection
The film delves into the importance of human connections amid tragedy and indifference. Through the interactions between the characters, particularly between the human resources manager and the journalist, it showcases how shared experiences can foster understanding and compassion. Their collaboration in honoring Yulia's memory becomes a testament to the enduring impact of empathy.
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Journey
The physical journey from Jerusalem to Romania serves as a metaphor for emotional and personal discovery. As the human resources manager makes this trek, he navigates not only the logistics of repatriation but also his own emotional landscape. This journey invites reflections on identity, home, and belonging.
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