New horror film The Offering (out Friday) paints an unusual setting for terror. Instead of the typical sleepy suburb, it's a tight-knit Jewish neighborhood. Instead of clueless homeowners, it's kind — and sometimes wise — ultra-orthodox Jews.

Writer and Producer Hank Hoffman, Producer Jonathan Yunger, and lead-actress Emily Wiseman enter the Zal to discuss the film's content, intentions, and implications.

Can the accurate depiction of Hasidim in film dispel anti-Jewish tropes, even in the world of horror? Beyond the Jewish context, how much of the genre is sheer entertainment and how much is meaningful metaphor? What does it mean to handle profound (mystical! fantastical! terrifying!) philosophy for insiders while not triggering misunderstanding. (Yup — we talk about Unorthodox, too. We had to.)

The Offering opens in theaters and everywhere on demand starting Friday, January 13.

Music:

Sami Hope's "Tidal Wave" [Spotify]

Yoel Baal Shem vanquishing demons.

(Rock the) Belz by Socalled.

23. Chazkel to Charlie Za"l

The Zal By Jewish Profundity (Sometimes)Nov 17, 2022