19th Annual Washington Jewish Film Festival. December 4-14, 2008

• Title:
• Lonely Man of Faith: The Life and Legacy of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik

• Director:
• Ethan Isenberg

• Language, Country:
• English , USA

• Duration:
• 100 minute

Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik was arguably the most influential rabbi of the 20^th Century and indisputably the intellectual leader of Modern Orthodox Judaism. This first major film biography charts his life from his beginnings as the heir to a Lithuanian Rabbinic dynasty, to his unusual decision to pursue secular learning at the University of Berlin (where he studied philosophy); through his arrival in America  and subsequent rise as the leading Orthodox religious scholar of his time. Called simply “The Rav” by his followers, Soloveitchik ordained over 2,000 rabbis during his career, more than any other figure in Jewish history. More impressive was his unique recognition of the opportunities and perils life in offered for Orthodoxy. While embracing modernity and pushing his movement to do so, he also stood as a stalwart for tradition. Walking that delicate line was no easy task, and frequently resulted in a kind of existential loneliness. By persevering he laid the foundation for a flourishing movement that continues to debate his legacy to this day.

Post-screening discussion: “The Legacy of Soloveitchik”

 Panelists:    Ethan Isenberg, director
                      Rabbi Jack Bieler, Kemp Mill Synagogue
                      Rabbi William Millen, Melvin J. Berman Hebrew Academy

Schedule: