To Dust

(2018)

To Dust (2018) is a thought-provoking and poignant drama that delves into themes of grief, religion, and the circle of life. Set in upstate New York, the film revolves around Shmuel, a Hasidic cantor who is deeply devastated by the sudden death of his wife. As he tries to find solace in his religious beliefs, Shmuel becomes fixated on the inevitable decay of his wife's body, which leads him on a peculiar and unconventional journey.

In his quest for answers, Shmuel seeks out Albert, a biology professor at a local college, who reluctantly agrees to help him understand the decay process. Together, they embark on a macabre and darkly comic adventure, experimenting with animals and even digging up a pig's corpse in a desperate attempt to uncover the truth.

To Dust offers a unique perspective on grief, exploring the complex emotions and thoughts that arise when confronted with the mortality of a loved one. The film skillfully combines humor with melancholy, creating a perfect balance that draws the audience into Shmuel's surreal yet relatable reality.

With outstanding performances by Géza Röhrig as Shmuel and Matthew Broderick as Albert, To Dust delivers a captivating story that challenges traditional religious beliefs and forces viewers to contemplate the fragility of life and the inevitability of death.