A Matter of Size

A Matter of Size, directed by Sharon Maymon and Erez Tadmor, is a 2009 Israeli comedy-drama film that skillfully combines heartwarming humor with cutting-edge social commentary. Starring Itzik Cohen, Irit Kaplan, and Dvir Benedek, this character-driven story offers an inspiring perspective on self-acceptance in the face of societal scrutiny. It delicately maneuvers the complexities of self-esteem, discrimination, friendship, and the pursuit of unconventional dreams.

The story revolves around Herzl (played by Itzik Cohen), a charming but overweight man who has spent most of his life being demeaned for his size. After losing his job as a salad chef for being too fat, he is obliged to work as a dishwasher at a Japanese restaurant. This unforeseen turn of events enables Herzl to cross paths with the fascinating world of Sumo wrestling, the Japanese combat sport that not only celebrates, but also requires its participants to be large and powerful.

In contrast to the western weight-obsessed culture that champions slim bodies, the world of Sumo wrestling is a breath of fresh air for Herzl. Breaking free from the humiliation of dieting and the oppressive weight-loss group, Herzl, along with his friends, embarks on an empowering journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Guided by Kitano (Togo Igawa), an ex-sumo wrestler, Herzl and his companions transform both literally and figuratively, reshaping their self-perception and reinventing their identities.

Meanwhile, the narrative also delves into the story of Zehava (Irit Kaplan), Herzl's love interest. Depicting her struggles with body image, the film offers an insightful commentary on how societal standards of beauty affect women. Her story is a sympathetic portrayal of a woman who is trying to embrace her genuine self amidst the societal pressure to morph into an acceptable form of beauty.

A Matter of Size uniquely and humorously takes on the plight of the weight-conscious society and its subtle yet pervasive impact on individuals. Through this film, viewers are given a light-hearted yet meaningful insight into how cultures perceive body weight differently and how these perceptions fundamentally shape personal identities and attitudes towards self-esteem and body acceptance.

However, this film isn't just about weight and society's judgment; it's also about friendships, relationships, and finding the courage to pursue your dreams, regardless of societal constraints. As much as it is a critique of the thin-obsessed world, it equally emphasizes the importance of strong bonds, sense of community, and the need for acceptance and respect.

Maymon and Tadmor display a deft hand at juggling the film's various elements. They successfully balance light-hearted comedy, emotional depth, and observational social commentary, ensuring that no aspect overshadows the others. As a result, you're consistently engaged and invested in the journeys of its characters. Moreover, the film manages to evoke empathy without ever feeling contrived or resorting to simplistic sentimentalism.

A competent ensemble cast supports the engaging storyline of A Matter of Size. Itzik Cohen, in his journey from dejection to acceptance, puts on a balanced performance that has you rooting for Herzl. Irit Kaplan portrays Zehava with a relatable vulnerability, making her character’s battles with body image an inherently poignant subplot. The camaraderie between the friends played by Dvir Benedek, Alon Dahan, Shmulik Cohen, and Shaul Azar adds a distinct charm to the film, providing many of its heartfelt and comical moments.

A Matter of Size is an enjoyable, thought-provoking, and uplifting movie that intertwines elements of comedy, romance, and social critique into an engaging narrative. Exceptional performances, insightful sequences, and a unique perspective make it a standout film that is more than worth a watch. At its heart, A Matter of Size is a film that emphasizes the fact that size really is just a matter of perspective and that the journey to self-love and acceptance is an ongoing process, regardless of one's weight, size, or body shape.