Bechzkat Satmar

The ultra-orthodox Jewish Satmar community leads a secluded life in the US. These Chassidics practice the strictest form of their religion in absolute isolation. They are also fierce Anti-Zionists. Little noticed in their own country, the Satmar members are notorious in many other parts of the world because of their zealous opposition to the state of Israel which they consider a work of the devil. Over the years, the Satmar have pursued a campaign to bring the last Yemenite Jews to the US. They convince them by painting a picture of Israel as a country of crime and prostitution and promise a warm welcome in America, as well as financial benefits to anyone who moves there. However, once they arrive in the US the Yemenites are forced to submit to the strict rules of the Satmar community – with sometimes terrible consequences, as the story told in this film illustrates. The Jararis were one of many Yemenite families lured to the US. Lost in a completely foreign environment they are unable to put up any resistance to the Satmar. After the sudden death of their little daughter, the Jararis are never allowed to see her body. Finally, the girl’s mother is accused of her murder. This investigative film gives a chilling account of her husband’s desperate attempt to prove her innocence and the struggle against the Satmar that ensues in the process. (DOK.fest München)