Advocate

Advocate, a 2019 film directed by Rachel Leah Jones and Philippe Bellaiche, offers an intriguing and complex portrait of a tireless human rights lawyer, Lea Tsemel. Throughout her career spanning nearly five decades, the impassioned Tsemel has represented a diverse range of Palestinian subjects, including well-known activists, alleged terrorists, domestic abusers, and minors accused of attempted manslaughter. As a Jewish-Israeli woman challenging the legal standing and practices of her country, Tsemel's life and career offer a unique perspective on the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In Advocate, the directors meticulously construct a rich narrative, blending the personal with the political to deliver an intimate exploration of Tsemel's unconventional career and bold personality. The film is an intricate tapestry, combining interviews, courthouse footage, animated sequences, and archived materials to create a deeply humanistic portrayal of a woman propelled by her resolute ideals and belief in justice.

Lea Tsemel isn't just a character in the film; she is a formidable force that drives its narrative. Her commitment to defending the marginalized and misrepresented is not without controversy. This film gives the audience an opportunity to explore and challenge their perspectives through the lens of Tsemel's indefatigable dedication to her work, which has constantly put her at odds with her nation's dominant political sentiments.

The directors juxtapose two of Tsemel's cases to provide a intimate view at the functioning of the Israeli justice system. One of the central recurring case is that of a 13-year-old boy from East Jerusalem accused of complicity in a planned stabbing attack. This choice of a current minor's case exemplifies the challenging nature of cases Tsemel takes on and highlights the complex, moral, and political dilemmas surrounding her work.

Animated sequences are strategically used within the film to shield the identities of Tsemel's clients. These sequences not only impart the film with a unique aesthetic but also deal sensitively with the charged subject matter.

The film also explores Tsemel's personal life. Her husband, Michel Warschawski, a well-known anti-occupation activist, provides valuable insights into Tsemel's work-driven life, helping delineate her unerring commitment to her cause. The tender, candid interactions between the two provide the necessary respite from the film's otherwise intense courtroom scenes.

Jones and Bellaiche do not shy away from depicting the intense pushback and critique faced by Tsemel throughout her career. Her unwavering defense of Palestinians in Israeli courts has led to substantial professional ostracization and even outright threats. Being referred to as the 'devil's advocate' is not uncommon for her, a term that she embraces as a badge of honor, embodying her refusal to step back.

Advocate pushes viewers to question the notion of justice and its unarguable ties to politics and power. While the film takes place within the specific geopolitical context of Israel, the questions it poses have universal resonance. The film further fuels the conversation about what it means to fight for the rights of individuals who may be deemed enemies by the state.

The directors have done a commendable job in maintaining a fine balance between not glorifying Tsemel and ensuring the portrayal of her brave defiance. The result is a nuanced documentary that makes viewers consider uncomfortable questions about law, morality, and duty.

In her signature red glasses, with a spirited demeanor and indomitable spirit, Lea Tsemel becomes a cinematic emblem of the broader human rights struggle. Advocate is a tribute to her ceaseless dedication and gritty resilience. It is a challenging yet inspiring watch that will leave viewers with a valuable perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the potential for individuals to challenge and change the legal and political structures around them.

In summary, Advocate is a profound and thought-provoking film. The directors' combined skillful narration, Tsemel's fearless advocacy, and the broader significance of its themes make the film a compelling, visceral exploration of human rights advocacy. It serves as an invitation for dialogue, understanding, and perhaps even active engagement in the battle for justice in all corners of the world.