Undressing Israel: Gay Men in the Promised Land

Undressing Israel: Gay Men in the Promised Land
Documentary
Filmmakers: Michael Lucas & Yariv Mozer

Michael Lucas teams with Israeli director Yariv Mozer (The Invisible Men) to examine a side of the Holy Land that is too often overlooked: its thriving gay community. When many people think of Israel, it is often in terms of modern war or ancient religion. But there is much more to the Jewish state than missiles and prayers.

Undressing Israel features interviews with a diverse range of local men, including a gay member of Israel’s parliament, a trainer who served openly in the army, a young Arab-Israeli journalist, and a pair of fathers raising their kids. Lucas also visits Tel Aviv’s vibrant nightlife scene—and even attends a same-sex wedding—in this guided tour of a country that has emerged as a pioneer for gay integration and equality.

Undressing Israel impressively offers honest reviews of what life is like for gay men, as documented by the gays who live there. Before watching this very well filmed documentary, I am among those who would have stereotyped the land and the people of Israel.  Yes, I thought they still rode on camels.  After watching the insightful 45 minute film, I am happy to report that Israel has been put on my bucket list.  

My favorite quote from the film: “The best thing about Tel Aviv is that you don’t need to have the gay bars and gay places, because everything is gay friendly.  We don’t need the labels.”

Watch the trailer here --> http://www.undressingisrael-themovie.com/

As featured in Connextions Magazine, Issue 13.

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