My Michael

In Jerusalem, 1950, Hana, a literature student, stumbles on the stairs of the Terra Sancta building where Michael Gonen, a geology student, helps her. This chance act of kindness sparks the beginning of their quiet friendship and mutual curiosity. Their first exchange hints at an intimacy that will gradually pull their lives together.

Hana supports herself as a kindergarten assistant and carries a reflective, introverted temperament. She recalls pre-war days playing with twin Arab children from the Katamon neighborhood, a memory that contrasts with her current isolation. The nostalgia reveals her longing for connection beyond her daily routines.

As Hana's relationship with Michael deepens, she becomes pregnant and agrees to marry him. The decision is framed by a sense of duty and the pull of companionship rather than idealized romance. The pregnancy cements a new chapter in their unstable life.

Michael's aunt Genia tries to dissuade Hana from marrying into the family, offering cautions and skepticism. Hana remains resolute, choosing partnership over her aunt's concerns. The episode introduces family tensions that shadow their marriage from the start.

Hana and Michael rent a modest apartment in a working-class district, beginning a life defined by financial limits and unspoken expectations. Michael remains absorbed in his studies while Hana searches for purpose beyond housework. The new home becomes a stage for quiet domestic strain.

Michael throws himself into geology, leaving little emotional space for Hana. She grows bored and increasingly despondent as daily routines blur into monotony. The widening gap between their lives deepens Hana's sense of isolation.

Hana watches her neighbor Duba experience fits of madness, a distressing reminder of fragility and the thin line between sanity and despair. The episodes deepen Hana's fear that she could slip into madness herself. The neighborhood becomes a tense backdrop to her inner critic.

Their son Yair is born, a moment that changes the rhythm of the household but does not erase Hana's lingering unhappiness. Parenthood does not bring the relief she expected. The family settles into a new dynamic shaped by her unresolved mood.

Hana's sexual relationship with Michael remains unfulfilling, and she fantasizes about intimacy with the twin Arab children she once knew. The longing underscores the emotional distance between them. This inner life intensifies her sense of isolation within their marriage.

Michael is drawn to his student Yardena, while Hana remains indifferent to this attraction. The dynamic highlights an ongoing emotional gap in their marriage. The situation hints at potential infidelity or temptation that further complicates their bond.

Hana begins tutoring their neighbor's son, Yoram, and an undercurrent of erotic tension develops, though nothing materializes. Yoram and his family move away, leaving Hana with a sense of longing as she watches him leave. The encounter marks a fleeting brush with desire that remains unfulfilled.

Hana confronts Michael about the monotony of their life, hoping to change their circumstances. He remains indifferent to her concerns, continuing with his research and routines. The couple drifts further apart as Hana's inner world grows more crowded with unspoken desires.