Sheitel – Beauty in the Hidden

Description

Synopsis

Sheitel – Beauty in the Hidden explores the cultural, religious, and personal significance of hair covering among Jewish women in Orthodox and Hasidic communities. Filmed in Jerusalem, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax, the documentary offers an insightful exploration of this practice through diverse voices and perspectives. It traces the historical and spiritual roots of hair covering for married women in Judaism, its evolving interpretations, and common misconceptions held by outsiders. The film highlights the variety of coverings – from wigs to scarves and hats – as symbols of both community identity and personal style. Scenes from Jerusalem reveal the richness of religious expression, showing how head coverings serve as markers of faith for not only Jewish but also Christian and Muslim women. Additionally, the documentary delves into the intricacies of the wig industry, the craftsmanship involved, and the personal and emotional significance tied to choosing and wearing wigs. Ultimately, Sheitel – Beauty in the Hidden encourages viewers to look beyond outward appearances and cultural differences, fostering understanding and acceptance both within the Jewish world and beyond.

Director

Lynda Medjuck Suissa is a documentary filmmaker originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia. Her journey has spanned diverse fields, beginning with Jewish Studies and Art History at the University of Toronto and Tel Aviv University. She later earned an MBA from Dalhousie University, paving the way for a successful career in Marketing and Communications.

In 2018, Lynda transitioned into documentary filmmaking as writer, director, and producer of Camp Kadimah – The Story of Our Lives, which was featured at the Atlantic Jewish Film Festival and the Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival. Her current film, Sheitel – Beauty in the Hidden, explores the practice of hair covering for married Jewish women, delving into its spirituality, history, and deeper cultural significance.