Archive for November, 2009
What would happen today if an animation studio were to release a cartoon with absolutely no dialogue, a running time of more than two hours and an all-classical music soundtrack? “Blockbuster-esque box office popularity” might not be your first guess, but Disney’s Fantasia was an achievement like none other, appreciated much more over time than it was upon release in 1941.
Pixar made a splash last year with “Wall-E,” a movie that runs a mere 20 minutes without dialogue. It just goes to show how much today’s films rely on exposition and blustery words rather than genuine feeling and storytelling. As a memento of Mickey Mouse’s classic turn as the sorcerer’s apprentice, Armani Disney figurines have captured the roll in a unique collectible.
The Star of David is unique in that it can be viewed as both a religious symbol and a sign of national solidarity. When the state of Israel was established in 1948, soon after the horrors of World War II had been fully revealed to the rest of the world, the star was proudly made to adorn the flag. According to the Torah, the star was modeled after one that decorated the shield of David – a man who would one day become king of the Israelites.
As a secular Jew, I mostly like to wear my Swarovski crystal pendent featuring the Star of David as a reminder and proud symbol of my heritage. When I visited Jerusalem with a group of college classmates, I wore the pendent on a stunning chain. When we visited the Western Wall in the Old City, I was overcome by both the historical and mystical weight of the place.