‘June Zero’ Review – A Gorgeously Constructed Film About Difficult Topics

June Zero is an anthology film directed by Jake Paltrow and co-written by Paltrow and Israeli writer-director Tom Shoval. Set in the early 1960s, it centers around the trial and execution of Adolf Eichmann – a key player in the Holocaust who was brought to Israel after being captured in Argentina. The incident itself sparked controversy, which is examined in the fragmented nature of the film.

The movie explores the Holocaust, Israel, and Judaism itself. It primarily follows the character Hiyam, played by Yoav Levi, who is a Moroccan Jew tasked with guarding Eichmann. There’s a lot of discourse as to what to do with Eichmann regarding how should his body be treated after execution. Should someone like Eichmann even be buried on Israeli soil? It’s an interesting dynamic – Hiyam was chosen to guard Eichmann because Israeli authorities were concerned that a European Jew might seek revenge against him. So, now Hiyam must ensure the safety of a man who not only is slated to be executed but who caused the death and despair of millions of people.

Elsewhere in the movie is Micha, played by Tom Hagi, who is an investigator for Eichmann’s trial. This portion of the film delves into some incredibly deep topics and explores poignant notions that affect society today. For many, this is going to feel like it hits close to home and there are political undertones that people are very passionate about.

Paltrow’s direction in the movie makes it feel less like a staging area and more like real life, which is a refreshing contrast to heavily CGI and multi-million dollar budgeted films today. And the choice to never reveal Eichmann’s face was ultimately an interesting choice. Rather than making the film about him, it’s about how his presence affects those around him. The plot of the film ensures that it’s never about the person himself, but rather his dark legacy.

The choice to utilize handheld 16mm cinematography also adds to the unique feel of the film, which makes it feel like a movie from long ago as opposed to one newly in theaters. The cinematography was done by Yaron Scharf and is a good choice when wanting to tell the kind of story June Zero does.

Ultimately, June Zero is a well-done movie that feels more like an art-house film from long ago than a Hollywood blockbuster and maybe that’s just what we need now.

June Zero is currently playing in select theaters courtesy of Cohen Media Group. It will be released on Blu-Ray and DVD on August 13th.