Lemon Tree

It’s possible that this parable of Israeli-Palestinian relations could no more deliver a satisfactory resolution than the real situation on which it is based, but the effort of Israeli filmmaker Erin Riklis to look over the Wall is honorable in intent and admirable in achievement.  At the center is the performance of Hiam Abbass as the Palestinian woman whose inherited lemon grove is threatened when the Israeli defense minister moves in next door.  The grove is deemed a security hazard and scheduled for removal, but the beautiful widow is immovable, and takes the case to the highest court.  Meanwhile the defense minister’s wife develops a secret sympathy for the woman on the other side of the fence.  The result is an even-handed treatment of a highly contested situation, which can only leave the viewer with difficult mixed feelings.  (2008, IFC)  *6+*  (MC-74)