Restoration

When his business partner of many years dies suddenly, Yaakov Fidelman realises his antique furniture restoration shop is on the point of bankruptcy. Fidelman’s son, who doesn’t get along with his father, wants to close the shop for good. “Without Malamud you are nothing,” he hears people saying. A ray of hope arrives in the form of apprentice Anton, who discovers an old piano in the back of the shop which could conceivably be spruced up and sold for big bucks. Will Mr Fidelman be able to establish peace within his own family and find tranquillity within himself? This subdued film gently conveys feelings of melancholy and despair, but also the compulsion not to give up. It observes its protagonists in intimate proximity and tries to find an understanding for their differing motives. The characters are faced with various decisions that will fundamentally influence not only their own lives, but the lives of the people close to them – and choosing the right path often requires serious contemplation. New beginnings are difficult, particularly with advancing years. (Karlovy Vary International Film Festival)