In the new short film “BABKA,” Director Serena Dykman presents a narrative that weaves together themes of identity, culture, and passion. The film centers on Moishe, a blind Orthodox Jewish baker who lives in the heart of Hasidic Williamsburg, Brooklyn. After recently losing his sight, Moishe is learning to navigate a new way of life as he re-opens his community’s beloved bakery. With the help of Jesus, a service dog trainer, Moishe adjusts to using his new guide dog, Bear.
The film explores the complexities that Moishe faces with his new disability in the tension between his personal needs and the religious culture of his tight-knit Orthodox community. Since the customs of Moishe’s community do not permit owning a dog, it creates conflict as he strives to return to his love of baking for his community while balancing the cultural and religious pressures around him.
In just 17 minutes, “BABKA” tackles the intersectional challenges of disability and culture by showcasing the complex struggles that emerge when personal needs conflict with religious traditions. The film thoughtfully presents the discomfort surrounding service animals and disability access needs within a community that views owning a dog as insensitive and against religious custom. Yet, throughout the film, viewers see how disability representation serves as a catalyst for movements of inclusion and acceptance. Through “BABKA”, Dykman presents the power of disability representation for inclusion within diverse cultural contexts. This film illuminates new ways of envisioning disability, accessibility, and inclusion in light of intersecting cultural influences through empathy and belonging.
“BABKA” will world premiere at the Cleveland International Film Festival as part of the Parability Program on Wednesday, April 2 and virtually through CIFF Streams, April 6-13, 2025.
