Lone Soldiers

A feature-length documentary about non-native Israelis who choose to enlist in the Israeli army.

How and why does a non-Israeli born Jewish boy or girl wind up wearing army fatigues with an M-16 hanging on his shoulder - in Israel? Many would never even entertain the thought of voluntarily entering such a hostile military zone, yet every year an increasing number of non-Israelis choose to enlist.

While many simply sit at home and feel enraged while watching the news, these individuals are determined to take action for a cause they believe in. It may sound poetic and noble, but what is really involved in making such a radical life choice and then actually seeing it through?

In an effort to examine all aspects of their experience, we will film these individual’s transition from civilian life to life as an Israeli soldier.  Witnessing this drastic change, as well as incorporating footage and interviews from their life at home, will help us illustrate all the intricacies involved in making this decision.  

We will follow a diverse group of recently immigrated cadets through the 4 and ½ months of basic training and show how they cope with what an Israeli soldier must endure. In addition we will examine the history of foreigners in the IDF and their importance to Israel.

For some, this journey is about connecting with their roots. For others it is a personal test of mental and physical strength. Whatever the reason may be, in this seminal decision to join the IDF can be found the solidarity that unites Jews everywhere- the common goal of preserving at all costs an independent Jewish state.