Project Details

TV series project, supported by The New Israeli Film Fund


Synopsis: “Starting Over” is a profound and intense drama set amidst the harrowing 2023 Israel–Hamas conflict, focusing on the lives of two Argentine-Israeli families, the Talpalars and the Roitmans. These families, having once fled a brutal dictatorship in Argentina, find themselves in the throes of a new and equally daunting crisis in their sanctuary, Israel. This series is a tale of resilience, identity, and the relentless pursuit of freedom, juxtaposing their past struggles with dictatorship in Argentina against the backdrop of escalating tensions and war in Israel.

Structure and Style: Over four intricately crafted episodes, “Starting Over” intertwines various timelines, each episode dedicated to a different theme such as war, protest, exile, and revival. The series employs a mix of real-time events and flashbacks, creating a rich tapestry that connects the families’ past in Argentina with their present in Israel. The visual style is raw and authentic, capturing the gritty reality of war and the emotional turmoil of the characters. Cinematography plays a crucial role, using close-ups to capture intimate moments of despair, hope, and determination, contrasting with wide shots that depict the chaos of war and protest.

Character Focus: Beatrice and Martin Talpalar symbolize the dilemma of starting over. Their story, from running a metal workshop to considering another emigration, illustrates the perpetual search for safety and stability. Their children, Maria and Ariel, represent the younger generation’s involvement and resistance against political upheaval, with Ariel’s role as a documentarian adding a layer of meta-narrative to the series. The Roitman family’s ordeal, particularly Ophelia’s kidnapping, acts as the emotional fulcrum of the series, demonstrating the personal cost of broader political and military conflicts.

Thematic Depth: The series delves deeper into themes of identity and democracy, exploring how past experiences shape one’s response to new challenges. It highlights the complexities of starting over, not just in a new country but also amidst new crises. Themes of resilience, the fight for democratic values, and the impact of war on the human psyche are explored in depth. The series also addresses the idea of home and belonging, especially in a world where political landscapes are constantly shifting.



Audience Engagement: “Starting Over” is designed to be more than a narrative experience; it aims to engage viewers in critical thinking about current global issues. The series encourages audiences to empathize with those caught in political turmoil and to understand the ripple effects of such conflicts on individuals and families. Each episode is intended to leave the audience with reflective questions about democracy, freedom, and human rights.
Filmmaker’s Personal Statement: Directed with a personal touch by a descendant of the families featured, the series offers an authentic glimpse into the lives affected by the upheavals in the Middle East. This perspective is vital in portraying the narrative not as a distant historical event but as a continuous struggle that resonates universally. The filmmaker’s connection to the story adds depth and authenticity, making “Starting Over” a poignant reminder of the ongoing battles for democracy and peace worldwide. The Filmmakers

Ariel Talpalar – Film Director and Screenwriter based in Israel, known for a diverse portfolio encompassing feature films and documentaries. He is the founder and CEO of Med Movies, a film production company dedicated to health and medicine. Notable works include: “Different Sky” (90min): A challenging love story between a Brazilian foreign worker and a Palestinian man entangled in terror attacks orchestrated by Hamas in Israel; “Hared” (75 min): A documentary delving into the life of an ultra-Orthodox father who documented his family's experiences during the Covid-19 era; “When They Took Gilad – The Reconstruction” A documentary film shedding light on the abduction of soldier Gilad Shalit to Gaza. Other reality television projects include “Big Brother”, “Arrange the Parents”, “War of the Sexes”, “Step Family”, “Silence from Cameras” and more.
Stephanie Abramovich – An experienced, award-winning Editor and Director, with numerous projects that participated in festivals worldwide and have been broadcast in many countries. Her directorial work includes the documentary film “Never Forget Me” dedicated to the memory of late film director Amos Gutman; “I Am Bridget” which was screened at the 2009 Berlin Festival and participated in 15 international festivals, as well as the dramas “Start-Up” and “To Look at You” which were screened at 38 international festivals worldwide, won 5 first prizes, and were acquired for international distribution. As an editor, many of her projects were screened at festivals and broadcast on major television channels in Israel and worldwide.
Avi Bohbot – Producer, Screenwriter and Director, Founder and CEO of Chaos Films, a production company committed to making a positive difference in the world through environmental and social projects. Avi leads screenwriting and filmmaking workshops and serves as an artistic consultant and a lector for film funds and filmmakers. His dedication to impactful storytelling and social change is reflected in the success and recognition garnered by his projects. With almost four- decade-long career, his work has graced major Israeli and international channels and renowned local and international film festivals. Notable works include: “Garden of Eden”, “Jerusalem Syndrome”, “What’s So Funny”, “The Ivgi-Suissa Report” “Judith – A Story of a Convert” and more. His acclaimed film, “The Last Sermon” received the prestigious “Hope Award” at the Tunis 2020 Human Rights Film Festival, and “Best Feature-length Documentary Award” and “Truth Seeker Award” at the Queens International Film Festival in NYC.