Shoshana, directed by Michael Winterbottom and released in 2023, is a poignant political thriller that delves into the complexities of love and conflict during the tumultuous 1930s in British Mandatory Palestine. The film is inspired by real events and follows the life of Shoshana Borochov, portrayed by Irina Starshenbaum. Music from the film’s soundtrack here.
Set against the backdrop of a burgeoning Tel Aviv, Shoshana intertwines personal and political narratives. The plot centers on Shoshana’s relationship with Tom Wilkin, a British police officer played by Douglas Booth. Wilkin, along with his partner Geoffrey Morton (Harry Melling), is tasked with capturing Avraham Stern, a charismatic leader of the militant Zionist group Irgun, which is known for its violent tactics against British authorities and Arab residents. As tensions rise between the Jewish settlers and the indigenous Arab population, Shoshana finds herself caught in a web of loyalty and betrayal, advocating for peaceful coexistence while being drawn into the violent conflict surrounding her.
The film features a wonderful cast: Irina Starshenbaum as Shoshana Borochov, Douglas Booth as Tom Wilkin, Harry Melling as Geoffrey Morton, Aury Alby as Avraham Stern, Ian Hart in a supporting role. Starshenbaum’s performance has been particularly praised for its depth and intensity, bringing to life the struggles of a woman caught between her ideals and the harsh realities of her time.
Shoshana Soundtrack – Additional Songs
- Chopin’s 24 Preludes, Op. 28 – No. 7 in A Major, Andamino – Iain Farrington
- Chopin’s Mazurka No. 24 in C, Op. 22 No. 3 – Iain Farrington
- Chopin’s Mazurka No. 5 in B Flat Major, Op. 7 No. 1 – Iain Farrington
- Chopin’s 24 Preludes, Op. 28 – No. 20 in C Minor, Largo – Iain Farrington
- Chopin’s Mazurka No. 7 in F Minor, Op. 7 No. 3 – Iain Farrington
- Chopin’s Nocturne No. 12 in G Major, Op, 37 No. 2 – Iain Farrington
- “The Wilds”, “Midnight” * “Mood” – John Altman
- Let’s Go – The Red Army Choir
- Odessa Bulgarish – Klezmerson
- S’Wonderful – John Altman
- The Man I Love – John Altman
- Sandrine’s Exit – Harry Escott & Molly Nyman
- String Quartet No. 17 (K458 Op. 10), No. 3 MVMT 2 – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
- Falling In Love Again – John Altman
- Quando l’amore è sensualità – E. Morricone
- The Man I Love – Ella Fitzgerald
Shoshana (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
The soundtrack of Shoshana plays a crucial role in enhancing the film‘s emotional landscape. Composed by the acclaimed musician David Holmes, the score blends traditional Middle Eastern sounds with contemporary elements, reflecting the cultural tensions present in the film. The music underscores pivotal moments, heightening the drama and drawing viewers deeper into the characters’ experiences. Holmes’ ability to evoke a sense of place and time through his compositions adds an additional layer of complexity to the storytelling.