Life in Stills

For four decades, Rudi Weissenstein bore witness to some of Israel’s most historic and defining moments through his camera lenses. His shop, Photohouse Pri-Or, was home to nearly a million of his negatives, including those taken as a reporter of the UN and official photographer at Israel’s Declaration of Independence by David Ben Gurion on 14th May 1948.

At the age of 96, his widow, Miriam, never imagined she would be facing a new hurdle in her life. But when Rudi’s iconic store became destined for demolition, even this opinionated and uncompromising woman knew she needed help. Under the cloud of a family tragedy, a special relationship is forged between Miriam and her grandson, Ben, as they flex their combined muscle to save the shop and Rudi’s irreplaceable images.

Despite the generation gap and many conflicts, in this stirring documentary, both grandmother and grandson undertake a gut-wrenching quest that also comprises many humorous and touching moments – one of love, courage and compassion.

“ One of the most charming documentaries that we’ve seen here lately” Yediot Achronot