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David Haivri
The Israel Tour Guide

Five Israeli TV Sitcoms and Drama Worth Watching

Israel Culture Though Popular TV Sitcoms and Drama. Israel is a country rich in history and culture, and what better way to immerse yourself in that culture than through local TV shows? Israeli cinema has gained international recognition for its unique perspective on modern-day issues, as well as its ability to delve into the country’s past and present life and dilemmas. From intense dramas to heartwarming comedies, Israeli TV series have something to to tell about this culture. 

In this article, we will be exploring some of Israel best sitcom and TV series that offer an insightful look into Israeli culture. These shows can provide a window into different angles of Israeli life and its people that might not be seen so clearly on other medias. If you are interested in learning more about Israeli culture as viewed by Israelis for Israelis, this list is the perfect place to start.

Through these TV shows, we will see the unique blend of Israelis from Moroccan, Ethiopian, European, Arab and other cultures that make up Israeli society, and learn about the diverse perspectives and voices that make up the country’s social and political fabric. Join us on this journey through Israeli television, and discover the rich tapestry of stories that make up this fascinating country.

Savri Maranan is an Israeli sitcom following a middle-class family living in Tel Aviv. Led by the veteran Israeli performer Yoram Goan, the show offers a relatable portrayal of Israeli family life, touching on universal themes such as raising children and dealing with neighbors and extended family members. It also addresses contemporary issues facing Israeli society with sensitivity and humor, providing a refreshing perspective on everyday life in Israel.

Through its relatable characters and humorous storytelling, Savri Maranan provides a window into Israeli culture that is both informative and entertaining. It offers a more realistic portrayal of Israeli life than the military or political-focused shows, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Israeli society. Overall, Savri Maranan is a well done sitcom that offers valuable insights into Israeli family life and culture.

Nafso is an Israeli sitcom that tackles the important issue of integration of Ethiopian Jews into Israeli society through the story of a young mixed couple. The husband, Nafso, is a young Ethiopian Jew from a traditional family who works in an advertising agency while his wife is a blond Ashkenazi non-orthodox Israeli girl. The show follows comic twists and blonders in their lives, as well as their ten-year-old daughter and very different in-laws on either side.

Through Nafso’s experiences and the interactions between the two families, the show sheds light on the challenges faced by Ethiopian Jews in Israel and the efforts to bridge the cultural gap between different Jewish communities. The show’s humor and relatable characters make it an engaging and entertaining watch, while also offering valuable insights into the ongoing struggle for integration and inclusivity in Israeli society.

The ’80s is an Israeli sitcom that stars the well-known Israeli comedian Shalom Asiyag, along with his son Daniel and a talented ensemble cast of other great Israeli actors and comedians, including Evelyn HaGoel and Shlomi Karyot. The show provides an entertaining and insightful look at the dynamics of cross-cultural interactions in an Israeli “development town” in the 1980s, capturing the essence of the times with its attention to detail and accurate portrayal of the cultural clashes and similarities that existed.

Asiyag’s comedic talent and experience shine through in the show, bringing a lighthearted touch to the serious themes explored. The show’s ability to balance humor and authenticity has made it a hit with Israeli audiences, offering a unique perspective on Israeli society and its evolution over time. For those who lived through similar experiences during that era, The 80’s is particularly amusing and nostalgic, providing a window into the challenges and joys of life in a diverse and rapidly changing society.

Matir Agunot is a powerful Israeli drama that sheds light on a painful Jewish legal situation and social phenomenon where abusive husbands can refuse to grant their wives a divorce, keeping them trapped in a state of limbo. The show follows the journey of a Rabbi/private investigator and thug, played by actor Aviv Alush, who is sent by the rabbinical court to track down and convince the “Get” refusers to sign the divorce papers, often through violent means.

The show’s bold and unflinching portrayal of this controversial issue has sparked important conversations about the rights of women in Jewish law and society. Alush’s nuanced performance captures the complexity of the situation, highlighting the struggle between the moral imperative to do what is right and the desire to uphold traditional religious values. Matir Agunot is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of religion and gender in Israeli society.

Muna is a complex and thought-provoking drama that explores themes of identity, culture, and belonging. The use of both Hebrew and Arabic languages in the show adds an interesting layer of complexity, highlighting the multicultural nature of Israeli society and the challenges faced by individuals who straddle different cultural and linguistic worlds.

Muna’s journey as a young female Arab-Israeli photographer navigating life in Tel Aviv while managing her connection to her roots in a village in the Galilee sounds like a compelling story that many viewers can relate to in their own variations. Similarly, Rani’s experience as a gay Arab living in Tel Aviv and grappling with his identity and place in society is likely to resonate with viewers.

Overall, it seems that Muna is a show that offers a nuanced and insightful exploration of the complexities of identity and culture in contemporary Israel.

We took a brief look at the potential of Israeli TV sitcoms and drama series to help English-speaking audiences learn about Israeli culture and social issues. The author recommends five lesser-known series as a starting point, acknowledging that there are many others available. By watching these shows, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of Israeli society and its complexities. Please feel free to share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments section.

About the Author
David Ha'ivri is a professional tour guide based in Jerusalem, Israel. He has been guiding visitors to Israel for over 20 years, providing unique and informative tours of the country's beautiful nature trails, its historical and religious sites. David is known for his passionate and engaging tours, which provide visitors with a deeper understanding of Israel's rich history and complex political landscape.
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