What to watch this week

This gripping mini-series is centred on a young woman who escapes from an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn, New York. Esty (Shira Haas) is trapped in an arranged marriage. Her husband, Yanky (Amit Rahav), doesn’t show any affection and is caught up in his religion. She’s 19 when she escapes to Berlin, Germany, where her estranged mom (The Descent’s Alex Reid) lives. There she makes friends with a group of music students and slowly learns to enjoy her new freedom in a secular world. But then she finds out Yanky and his thuggish cousin ( Jeff Wilbusch) are on her trail . . .

Unorthodox is based on Deborah Feldman’s 2012 autobiography, Unorthodox: The Scandalous Rejection of My Hasidic Roots. The series offers a glimpse into the traditions and practices of this closed community. And even though most of it’s in Yiddish, you hardly notice. The Hasidic community is strongly opposed to modern values and practices. Wives shave their heads and wear wigs so no other man can see their hair, while the men still wear traditional black coats and hats.

Just like Esty you feel she doesn’t belong there and Haas gives an excellent portrayal of an almost defenceless character who surprises you with her inherent strength. When she removes her wig for the last time, it’s a truly joyful moment.

Unorthodox is interesting and informative and tells a remarkable true story. The actors are skilful and the costumes in the wedding scene are a highlight. Recommended.