The Tollbooth

Sarabeth graduates from art school, ready to take on the world and express herself through her art. This milestone marks a new beginning, but also a source of pressure from her family about her future.

Facing family expectations, Sarabeth feels increasingly trapped between her passion for art and the demands placed on her by her parents. Her mother's nagging and her father's misunderstandings create a stifling atmosphere for her creative spirit.

Sarabeth's sisters are also navigating their own lives, each following distinctly different paths. One sister embraces motherhood, while the other reveals her same-sex orientation during their family's Rosh Hashanah dinner, adding to the familial tension.

In an attempt to escape the chaos of city life, Sarabeth's boyfriend Simon decides to move to the suburbs. His choice to retreat reflects the growing emotional distance between them as he seeks a quieter lifestyle.

Amidst family chaos, Sarabeth turns to her art to navigate her complex emotions. She expresses her inner turmoil using vibrant colors and forms on canvas, seeking solace in her creative process.

Sarabeth is haunted by the tragic legacy of her family's past, including the painful memories of relatives lost during the Holocaust. These recollections add to her feelings of isolation and the weight of her Jewish heritage.

The heaviness of family tradition and the painful memories of synagogue visits intertwine, complicating Sarabeth's relationship with her identity. This emotional legacy becomes increasingly difficult for her to navigate.

During a seemingly ordinary 4th of July barbecue, Sarabeth overhears a comment that carries a bitter anti-Semitic undertone. This moment acts as a catalyst, pushing her to confront her own identity and the way it is perceived by others.

Empowered by her realization at the barbecue, Sarabeth understands that she must not let others define her identity. This moment fosters her determination to embrace both her art and her Jewish roots without compromise.

With newfound clarity, Sarabeth begins to carve a path that honors her artistic vision while staying true to her heritage. She navigates the intricacies of love, family dynamics, and self-discovery in the vibrant landscape of New York City.

In her journey of self-discovery, Sarabeth finds herself grappling with the complexities of her relationship with Simon. As he opts for suburban life, she must decide whether to follow him or stay true to her artistic aspirations.

Sarabeth moves toward reconciling her past experiences with her present life. She learns to integrate the pain of her family's history into her art, transforming it into a source of strength rather than weakness.

With each brush stroke, Sarabeth embraces her artistic expression as a hallmark of her identity. This newfound freedom allows her to create and connect with others while staying true to her roots.

As Sarabeth finds her footing amidst the chaos of family dynamics, her art becomes both a refuge and a voice. She learns to balance familial love with her own desires, navigating the complexities of life in a bustling city.

Sarabeth's journey culminates in a commitment to forge her own path, merging her passion for art with an understanding of her heritage. With every new canvas, she embraces the journey of self-discovery and the richness of her identity.