This movie is a little gem. Definitely not a historic film, this semi-autobiography of author Amos Oz is an exploration of human interactions during the time of the British occupation in Mandatory Palestine. I would have given the film another star, but was slightly rattled when I missed a musical "fill" when it was necessary, and looked for more "goofs" when what appeared to be a plastic bag drifted across a shot early on in the movie, set in the 1940s. In addition, I awaited (and received) the obligatory Oz political stance on the situation in Israel. That is something I believe the film could have done without, since it is an otherwise charming piece. After the showing, the producer gave a little background into the making of the movie (incredibly small budget, all-Israeli crew, Molina phoning and asking for a role in the film). That was an extra treat. I will definitely buy the DVD when it comes out, and will recommend it to my kids. It's a story of emotions overcoming the clash of stereotypical enemies.
17 Reviews
Coming of age movie
ascendant0116 March 2012
--- I am not going to write much here because I think you have to watch this movie rather than read about it. It was made in an excellent manner and had first rate actors with high kudos going to Ido Port as Proffy and Alfred Molina as Dunlop.
--- Very essentially put this is a story about an 11 year old boy who carries on a friendship with a British "occupation" soldier in Israel just before it became Israel. The boy learns the hard way that sometimes your enemy can treat you better than your supposed friends and that although innocent friendship can and should be something one can treasure for life, it can also be called treason by the ignorant. I won't tell more for fear of telling to much.
--- The story is told in a very sweet way and is a well made coming of age movie. I don't think many people would be disappointed with the time investment to watch this one.
--- Very essentially put this is a story about an 11 year old boy who carries on a friendship with a British "occupation" soldier in Israel just before it became Israel. The boy learns the hard way that sometimes your enemy can treat you better than your supposed friends and that although innocent friendship can and should be something one can treasure for life, it can also be called treason by the ignorant. I won't tell more for fear of telling to much.
--- The story is told in a very sweet way and is a well made coming of age movie. I don't think many people would be disappointed with the time investment to watch this one.
A Gem of a Film
blpkst5 February 2022
I stumbled across this film and watched it purely on the strength of actor Alfred Molina who plays a British soldier occupying Palestine just before Israel is recognized as a state. Molino's character is befriended by an 11 year old Jewish boy. I enjoyed the friendship and the way the story unfolds. A lovely script, beautifully acted and kid actors that are actually quite good especially the lead boy whose story this film centers around.
The film is especially poignant now with so much misunderstanding and ignorance in the world.
The film is especially poignant now with so much misunderstanding and ignorance in the world.
A little inaccurate
shuman353-122 February 2013
The original Title "Panther in the Basement" was a better title - IMHO. The big issue, is the FACT that there has NEVER been a Country named Palestine. This term was once used by a Roman General, a derogatory description of the people circa 200 BC. Around 1947, an Arab used the term Palestinian at the U.N. to describe the people that where living in tents in the South of Israel.
There has NEVER been a single map, before 1948, that has ever displayed a single place with that name and to this day, the only maps that do NOT name the Country as Israel are found in the Middle east.
In conclusion, this story has become a propaganda piece, trying once again to replace the actual name of the Country.
There has NEVER been a single map, before 1948, that has ever displayed a single place with that name and to this day, the only maps that do NOT name the Country as Israel are found in the Middle east.
In conclusion, this story has become a propaganda piece, trying once again to replace the actual name of the Country.
Should have been lovely
orosenb23 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
A Jewish son of holocaust survivors living in what was then called Palestine under British rule, is quite sure of his feelings concerning the British - they should be driven out of the land. That is until he meets and befriends a British soldier. But at what cost?
Despite being low budget, the movie had a lot going for it - a good plot, the beauty of Jerusalem, Alfred Molina....
Unfortunately, not only weren't these - with the exception of Molina - aptly taken advantage of, but the main character - the boy - delivered most lines as if he was taking dictation, thereby ruining the viewers' experience. What a shame!
Despite being low budget, the movie had a lot going for it - a good plot, the beauty of Jerusalem, Alfred Molina....
Unfortunately, not only weren't these - with the exception of Molina - aptly taken advantage of, but the main character - the boy - delivered most lines as if he was taking dictation, thereby ruining the viewers' experience. What a shame!
Charming coming of age tale
psiguy31 October 2009
So many historical movies are just overbearing and a slog to get through. The Little Traitor really gives you just enough historical background for the events to serve as a backdrop for the primary story - an unlikely friendship between an Israeli boy growing up in Palestine and an English soldier trying to keep the peace.
Alfred Molina (Spider-Man 2, Chocolate, Prince of Persia) stars as Sergeant Dunlop, a kindhearted man who doesn't really fit in among his fellow soldiers and longs for home and the girlfriend he left behind. He encounters a precocious young boy named Proffy (Ido Port), who fancies himself a crusader for Israeli independence. He sees that Proffy, who has never connected with his father, needs a male influence and befriends him.
The friendship proves tricky for them both, as Dunlop's fellow soldiers are weary of the boy, and Proffy's friends end up seeing him as a traitor for befriending Dunlop. Dunlop and Proffy each grows through the adversity they face and end up stronger for it.
Molina is really fabulous in this classy, warm coming of age tale. Some might see it as a niche film for Jewish audiences only, but it tells an extremely universal story that I think would play well with anyone.
Alfred Molina (Spider-Man 2, Chocolate, Prince of Persia) stars as Sergeant Dunlop, a kindhearted man who doesn't really fit in among his fellow soldiers and longs for home and the girlfriend he left behind. He encounters a precocious young boy named Proffy (Ido Port), who fancies himself a crusader for Israeli independence. He sees that Proffy, who has never connected with his father, needs a male influence and befriends him.
The friendship proves tricky for them both, as Dunlop's fellow soldiers are weary of the boy, and Proffy's friends end up seeing him as a traitor for befriending Dunlop. Dunlop and Proffy each grows through the adversity they face and end up stronger for it.
Molina is really fabulous in this classy, warm coming of age tale. Some might see it as a niche film for Jewish audiences only, but it tells an extremely universal story that I think would play well with anyone.
Sweet, well done film
TheDome815 June 2023
This is a sweet little indie film about the friendship between a British soldier and a young Israeli boy. When I first saw Alfred Molina, I said to myself, "I've seen this guy in a bunch of stuff before." I checked his IMDb profile and was flabbergasted by just how many films and tv shows he's appeared in. Just looking at the number of productions he's been involved in since 2020 is incredible.
The Little Traitor take place in Israel just after the Second World War and before the country was recognized by the rest of the world. The English were stationed there to help keep the peace. A young boy Proffy (Ido Port) hangs out with two friends who have their own little brotherhood of English-hating kids. One day, Proffy is out on the streets after curfew and is nabbed by a kindly English soldier Dunlop (Molina). He escorts him home and lets him go with a warning. The two become fast friends and Proffy spends with Dunlop at the officer's club almost every afternoon.
The two learn about each other's cultures and Dunlop acts as sort of a big brother to Proffy. When it's brought to the attention of the local Jewish authorities that he's been flirting with the enemy, Proffy's brought before a tribunal and is questioned. It's just one of the many adventures he encounters in this excellent movie.
I really enjoyed this film. The two lead characters felt so natural together. And it's always nice to watch a film where nothing horrible happens. If you're looking for a pleasant film the whole family will enjoy, don't miss this gem. To see more of y reviews, check out moviejunkiemark. It's on blogspot.
The Little Traitor take place in Israel just after the Second World War and before the country was recognized by the rest of the world. The English were stationed there to help keep the peace. A young boy Proffy (Ido Port) hangs out with two friends who have their own little brotherhood of English-hating kids. One day, Proffy is out on the streets after curfew and is nabbed by a kindly English soldier Dunlop (Molina). He escorts him home and lets him go with a warning. The two become fast friends and Proffy spends with Dunlop at the officer's club almost every afternoon.
The two learn about each other's cultures and Dunlop acts as sort of a big brother to Proffy. When it's brought to the attention of the local Jewish authorities that he's been flirting with the enemy, Proffy's brought before a tribunal and is questioned. It's just one of the many adventures he encounters in this excellent movie.
I really enjoyed this film. The two lead characters felt so natural together. And it's always nice to watch a film where nothing horrible happens. If you're looking for a pleasant film the whole family will enjoy, don't miss this gem. To see more of y reviews, check out moviejunkiemark. It's on blogspot.
Substantive and Entertaining
dolce2223 October 2009
Really glad to see this movie is coming out. Saw it at a film festival where it got a standing ovation. Went with my daughter(age 14) and husband (age 68) and me (age 50) and all three of us just loved it. It deals with an interesting time of history, the British Mandate in Palestine and offers an even handed view. Performances are all around good. The little boy is exceptional and Alfred Molina is one of our favorites. The movie isn't sappy but it's hopeful, good hearted and VERY entertaining. You leave the theater feeling good. Would recommend to all my friends and wouldn't be surprised if this film picked up some real momentum.
Very good history, bad narrative.
tomasdelara27 April 2009
This is a typical case of a good history with a bad narrative.
The movie ought to be good, the context is very interesting, Alfred Molina is a good actor, the plot is good. But there's a lot missing.
The director created such a simple and superficial narrative, you won't see good cinematography, nor a good acting apart from Molina.
Maybe this is a movie made for children or people who are searching for, as we say in Brazil, "water and sugar" entertainment movie, then, you might like it.
I am very sorry, but with all do respect, for sure this is not like watching a Truffaut movie... People should see more Truffaut movies before comparing this movie with the movies from Nouvelle Vague's most important director.
I will dare to make a comparison so you can understand what I am trying to say: La vita è bella (1997) from R. Benigni, is a movie which can be seen by children and adults, and is a 10 out of 10 movie, with a perfect and original narrative, and a beautiful history.
But if you are looking for a soft-easy to watch-rainy-Sunday-kids-movie go for it.
5 out of 10
The movie ought to be good, the context is very interesting, Alfred Molina is a good actor, the plot is good. But there's a lot missing.
The director created such a simple and superficial narrative, you won't see good cinematography, nor a good acting apart from Molina.
Maybe this is a movie made for children or people who are searching for, as we say in Brazil, "water and sugar" entertainment movie, then, you might like it.
I am very sorry, but with all do respect, for sure this is not like watching a Truffaut movie... People should see more Truffaut movies before comparing this movie with the movies from Nouvelle Vague's most important director.
I will dare to make a comparison so you can understand what I am trying to say: La vita è bella (1997) from R. Benigni, is a movie which can be seen by children and adults, and is a 10 out of 10 movie, with a perfect and original narrative, and a beautiful history.
But if you are looking for a soft-easy to watch-rainy-Sunday-kids-movie go for it.
5 out of 10
The Ties That Bond
gradyharp1 May 2011
THE LITTLE TRAITOR is a touching little film based on the Amos Oz novel 'Panther in the Basement' and adapted for the screen and directed by Lynn Roth. Made in 2007 but for some reason not commercially released in the USA until On Demand films became popular on television, it is now available in DVD and deserves attention, especially in the current situation of the Middle East situation. This is one of those films that may be small or low budget, but carries a rather profound message that transcends political restrictions or biases.
The story takes place in 1947 Palestine before the formation of Israel as state in 1948. Proffy Liebowitz (Ido Port) may be only eleven years old but he is very bright and has insights into the political situation of the times. He was conceived in Poland but born in Palestine when his parents immigrated in hopes of forming a Jewish state of fellow WW II survivors from the concentration camps. Proffy resents the presence of the British in Paelstine who inflict curfews on the citizens of Jerusalem and joins with his buddies to plan bombs and other ordinances to terrorize the British make their motto of Freedom Or Death meaningful. Proffy's father (Rami Heuberger) is a harsh disciplinarian: he and his wife give sanctuary for immigrant homeless Jews and don't want Proffy to disturb the British policing of the city for fear of altering their roles as protectors.
Out beyond curfew time one evening Proffy encounters British Sergeant Dunlop (Alfred Molina) and somehow the two connect: Dunlop does not arrest Proffy but instead returns him to his home with the promise that Proffy will join him for lunch the next day! Proffy's father grounds him for a week, but finally when Proffy is released he looks up Dunlop and the two share literature and conversation, times that allow each to understand the other's stance and personality, and Proffy begins to see the warmly generous Dunlop as a father figure - a man who psychologically replaces Proffy's own cold and remote father. Their friendship becomes a strong bond between what Proffy had once considered a clash of enemies. As their friendship builds Proffy's young friends discover the relationship and begin to spread rumors that Proffy is passing Jewish intelligence to the British. Proffy is interrogated (Theodore Bikel) and how the Jews and the British deal with this is the climax of the story. We do see years later the old Dunlop meet the now adult Proffy (Natan Ravich) in a very touching scene.
Alfred Molina once again proves that he can make even a small film rise to a fine standard and his interaction with the young Ido Port is memorable. The film is in English and Hebrew with subtitles. Recommended for all audiences.
Grady Harp
The story takes place in 1947 Palestine before the formation of Israel as state in 1948. Proffy Liebowitz (Ido Port) may be only eleven years old but he is very bright and has insights into the political situation of the times. He was conceived in Poland but born in Palestine when his parents immigrated in hopes of forming a Jewish state of fellow WW II survivors from the concentration camps. Proffy resents the presence of the British in Paelstine who inflict curfews on the citizens of Jerusalem and joins with his buddies to plan bombs and other ordinances to terrorize the British make their motto of Freedom Or Death meaningful. Proffy's father (Rami Heuberger) is a harsh disciplinarian: he and his wife give sanctuary for immigrant homeless Jews and don't want Proffy to disturb the British policing of the city for fear of altering their roles as protectors.
Out beyond curfew time one evening Proffy encounters British Sergeant Dunlop (Alfred Molina) and somehow the two connect: Dunlop does not arrest Proffy but instead returns him to his home with the promise that Proffy will join him for lunch the next day! Proffy's father grounds him for a week, but finally when Proffy is released he looks up Dunlop and the two share literature and conversation, times that allow each to understand the other's stance and personality, and Proffy begins to see the warmly generous Dunlop as a father figure - a man who psychologically replaces Proffy's own cold and remote father. Their friendship becomes a strong bond between what Proffy had once considered a clash of enemies. As their friendship builds Proffy's young friends discover the relationship and begin to spread rumors that Proffy is passing Jewish intelligence to the British. Proffy is interrogated (Theodore Bikel) and how the Jews and the British deal with this is the climax of the story. We do see years later the old Dunlop meet the now adult Proffy (Natan Ravich) in a very touching scene.
Alfred Molina once again proves that he can make even a small film rise to a fine standard and his interaction with the young Ido Port is memorable. The film is in English and Hebrew with subtitles. Recommended for all audiences.
Grady Harp
Shallow, poor script, bad acting
cinamou17 July 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I do not understand how this movie has the same score as "Politiki Kouzina" and "Vitus" which both have children acting the lead role!? You cannot even compare the quality of acting, directing, script, ANYTHING!
I'm sure that it is terribly difficult to find children that can act, but the little boy playing Profi, has such a flat, expressionless tone, voice and face that it was impossible to believe he feels anything for Sargeant Dunlop. Since all the story revolves around this young boy, make it worth it!
The plot is so fast that no scenes are given enough time to develop. Since this story is based on a book, I'm sure there was plenty of material to work with! But i do not know where it all went!?
When the hell did did they become friends, and have enough time to develop such a strong bond that Dunlop would turn up for such an "emotional" reunion 30 years later! For goodness sake! The evolution of a real friendship, which is the central concept (combined with a few historical references) is much harder than what is shown.
Sorry to say but this is such a shallow movie. Poor Alfred Molina is wasted really because the script is just so poor.
I understand that this is a patriotic Israelian movie but the worst thing is that it is also trying SO hard to be a "deep" movie. NO NO NO!!! There have been so many movies about the plight of the Jews, that it is a difficult subject to tackle, especially after masterpieces like "La Vita e Bella" where every single moment is breathtaking.
Incidentally the movie has the same score as American Pie. I understand that...its of the same depth. But with American Pie we were laughing WITH the actors and not AT their acting abilities.
I'm sure that it is terribly difficult to find children that can act, but the little boy playing Profi, has such a flat, expressionless tone, voice and face that it was impossible to believe he feels anything for Sargeant Dunlop. Since all the story revolves around this young boy, make it worth it!
The plot is so fast that no scenes are given enough time to develop. Since this story is based on a book, I'm sure there was plenty of material to work with! But i do not know where it all went!?
When the hell did did they become friends, and have enough time to develop such a strong bond that Dunlop would turn up for such an "emotional" reunion 30 years later! For goodness sake! The evolution of a real friendship, which is the central concept (combined with a few historical references) is much harder than what is shown.
Sorry to say but this is such a shallow movie. Poor Alfred Molina is wasted really because the script is just so poor.
I understand that this is a patriotic Israelian movie but the worst thing is that it is also trying SO hard to be a "deep" movie. NO NO NO!!! There have been so many movies about the plight of the Jews, that it is a difficult subject to tackle, especially after masterpieces like "La Vita e Bella" where every single moment is breathtaking.
Incidentally the movie has the same score as American Pie. I understand that...its of the same depth. But with American Pie we were laughing WITH the actors and not AT their acting abilities.
This movie needs to be seen now
hjfbd14 January 2009
What a beautiful, simply told, elegant film. A film that should be seen NOW. With all the strife in the Middle East and hatred filling the news and media, this film reaffirms our faith in love, understanding and unity in a complicated world. I do not cry in movies often.....this wonderful film got to my heart AND mind. This is what movies have been missing for so long.....a simply story told directly and honestly. There is no pulling on emotional heart strings.....no special effects.....no plot shocks at the end. Just an honest story expertly laid out by a director who trusts the story being told and her wonderful cast who executes the tale with honest emotion. This film is one to be cherished.
friendship between a British soldier and a young Israeli boy just prior to the formation of the state of Israel
denar42731 January 2009
This story was told beautifully. it is like watching a truffaut film. It is one of those films that allow you to experience a moment in time. It is told simply and clearly with a wonderful performance by Alfred Molina. the young boys are at the same time earnest in their beliefs and headstrong in their rebellious strategy. The setting of Israel 1948 is very authentic and very aptly captures a time past. Seeing Jews, Arabs, Christians coexisting in daily life is a rarely seen way of life. It is important to see that this did and can exist. This aspect of the struggles prior to the formation of the state of Israel is very interesting and relevant , especially now. The Little Traitor captures both the energy and the sensitivity of the time. I think it is a movie that will appeal to a cross section of ages and backgrounds. I think that it is a rare film that can be enjoyed by a family together and will teach about history, hope and humanity.
forgettable
MrDeWinter4 August 2021
Was looking forward to this due to the interesting story-line. Unfortunately the execution lacks pace and warmth. Despite the nice cinematography I found it very boring to watch. Something was missing, drama. Looked too staged, taken straight from the story-board. Unable to connect with the characters to a level to stay engaged. Dropped out after 20 min.
A terrific coming of age movie
sandi-kagan27 October 2009
Warning: Spoilers
This is a fantastic coming of age movie that will appeal to film goers of all ages. The story is about a Jewish boy in Palestine prior to the formation of the state of Israel. He is befriended by a British soldier and must confront the issue of hating the British but liking this soldier. Alfred Molina, living up to his reputation as an exceptional actor in all genres, plays a compelling English soldier who has his own reservations about the British mandate. Where did they find this kid Ido Port? He is sensational. I am often turned off by Israeli's with strong accents when they speak English. Port has none of that. There is a great supporting role played by Theodore Bikel. All in all this is a very satisfying movie that I can highly recommend.
Beautifully directed movie
sonadi-137464 February 2022
The movie shows about the Jewish community in Israel and the process of their establishment in the British occupied Palestine. It shoes how little proffy and his relation with a British soldier friend changes as he learns more about life around him.
Simple Yet Eloquent
haroldf-3087114 December 2022
This film has no car chases, and no people jumping out of planes. It is simply done, yet manages to leave you with a smile on your face.
The film deals with the Middle East, which exists with many divergent viewpoints. In its own way, the film treads lightly, which turns out to work well. You may disagree with some of the underlying message, and yet be taken in by its simple charm.
If you are looking for a major Hollywood blockbuster, this film is very not that, and you should skip it. But if you want to spend ninety minutes and smile softly afterwards, it is a nice way to spend those ninety minutes.
The film deals with the Middle East, which exists with many divergent viewpoints. In its own way, the film treads lightly, which turns out to work well. You may disagree with some of the underlying message, and yet be taken in by its simple charm.
If you are looking for a major Hollywood blockbuster, this film is very not that, and you should skip it. But if you want to spend ninety minutes and smile softly afterwards, it is a nice way to spend those ninety minutes.
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