‘Reading Lolita in Tehran’: Lifts veil on how regime turned rotten

The latest episode of 'The Reel Schmooze' podcast delves into the film 'Reading Lolita in Tehran,' an adaptation of Azar Nafisi's acclaimed 2003 memoir. Directed by Israeli filmmaker Eran Riklis, the movie structures its narrative around chapters inspired by iconic literary works, including 'The Great Gatsby,' 'Daisy Miller,' and 'Pride and Prejudice.'

Starring Golshifteh Farahani, Zar Amir Ebrahimi, Mina Kavani, and Israeli entertainer Rita, the film offers a cinematic exploration of Nafisi's experiences. Host Amanda Borschel-Dan and film reviewer Jordan Hoffman provide their takes on the movie, using their signature 'oy,' 'meh,' or 'not bad' ratings.

Beyond the main film review, the episode features a unique 'dvar Torah' from Hoffman, who draws connections between the new blockbuster 'The Odyssey,' James Joyce's 'Ulysses,' and the historical context of antisemitism in Ireland. The Reel Schmooze is produced by Ari Schlacht and is available on all major podcast platforms.