This year, Israeli director Livi Kessel was invited to participate in the 25th Shanghai International Film Festival, and her film "The other City" (The other City) was shortlisted for the special screening unit of the festival. On June 14, Levi Kessel took her film into the China-Israel (Shanghai) Innovation Park in Putuo District, Shanghai, and shared her story with the film with the audience.
"Another City" poster
"Another City" tells the changing times of Haifa, a sister city of Shanghai, through the growth stories of five young people. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of sister cities between Shanghai and Haifa. Li Wei's film also allows Chinese audiences to understand the coastal city of Haifa from a unique perspective.
At the event site, Eytan Halon, Deputy Consul General of Israel in Shanghai, delivered a speech first. He said that there were four wonderful Israeli films screened at the Shanghai International Film Festival. He said: "We are very happy that through this event today, we can give you an insight into another side of Haifa, not just the one we often see in the media and on the Internet. Together, we can follow creative young Israelis on their journeys." At the same time, as budding artists, they are bound to struggle with many challenges. In addition to its famous industry, academics and impressive scenery, Haifa also has a rich and diverse artistic and cultural heritage .”
Director Levi Kessel shares her films with audiences
At the scene, director Levi Kessel introduced the whole story of her shooting this documentary to the audience. In 2007, Levy, a photography student, moved into an empty building in central Haifa. Just before she felt lonely and ready to leave, 4 young artists including Shahar, Zvi, Iddo and Talia moved in. They who are similar in age get together, and their friendship heats up instantly. When Zvi couldn't afford the rent, the group decided to rent a place together, half as Zvi's residence and half as an art gallery and bar. Thanks to their efforts, the galleries and bars they co-founded flourished, and their happy voices can be heard from afar. However, disagreements arose shortly after, the gallery closed and they went their separate ways.
For 12 years, Levi has used her camera to document her journey with her friends to realize her dreams. From the difficult realities of facing life difficulties, manic depression and alcoholism together, to intimate and loving moments of bliss, the film reveals the stories of five friends and their long journey to maturity.
There are troubles growing up, and culture knows no borders. The stories of "Another City" allude to thousands of young Israelis, and these stories often happen around us.
