The Settlers (2003/I) (NR)

synopsis

Tension mounts to the boiling point as Jewish "settlers" encroach upon the formerly exclusive Arab neighborhoods of Jerusalem. On the other end of the Israeli political spectrum, the state complies with international demands to relinquish territory to the Palestinians. Such schizophrenic splits only fuel the flames. In the intense heat of these conflicts, the camera captures two unforgettable subjects: Ali and Dov. Ali is a Palestinian parolee--convicted of planting a bomb during the Six Day War--who leads radical anti-Zionist tours of former "terrorist sites" throughout the land. Dov is an expatriated American Hassidic zealot and talk-radio host, who provides his former Brooklyn neighbors with the news from Hebron, broadcast live via cell phone. The fragmented Israeli/Palestinian society is mirrored by the emotional unraveling of both men, as their personal demons threaten to destabilize the fragile truce they have made for themselves. While both Ali and Dov hope for peace, reminders of war echo in their voices and in the streets.