Golda (2023)

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Biopics often face the challenge of telling the complete story of a complex figure. Some films focus on specific events in their subject’s life to make the story more relatable, while others take a more ambitious approach and explore broader themes. Guy Nattiv’s Golda chronicles the life of former Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir, taking the latter approach – to mixed results.

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The film focuses on Meir’s role in the Yom Kippur War of 1973, a pivotal moment in both her life and in the history of Israel. Meir (Hellen Mirren), Israel’s only female prime minister, grapples with the difficult decisions she must make as her country faces a major threat. She must balance the competing demands of protecting her country, avoiding unnecessary casualties, and navigating the complex political landscape of the Middle East, all while battling cancer.

Opening with a poignant scene where Meir recounts the war’s tumultuous events to the Agranat Commission, the narrative shifts back in time to the days leading up to the conflict. Here, Meir stands at a crossroads, confronted with the weighty decision of mobilizing the Israeli army. Intelligence reports hint at the brewing storm – Egypt and Syria’s sinister plans for an attack loom large.

Meir must navigate the complex political landscape of the Middle East, seeking support from both the United States, led by Secretary of State Henry Kissinger (Liev Schreiber), and the Soviet Union. As the war mounts, she faces challenging choices with far-reaching consequences. She privately notes each fallen soldier’s name, shouldering the heavy responsibility. Yet, her unwavering resolve is anchored in the understanding that Israel’s welfare transcends personal sentiment, driving her to make agonizing decisions that history will remember.

Helen Mirren steps into the role of Golda Meir with a seasoned grace, her portrayal transcending imitation with the aid of adept makeup and wardrobe choices. Nicholas Martin’ script strategically grants Mirren moments to shine, notably during the Agranat hearing, yet often allows her commanding presence to convey profound emotions through subtle expressions. While initial concerns about Mirren’s casting arose due to her non-Jewish background, director Guy Nattiv’s decision proves astute, aligning with his commitment to capture the story’s essence.

However, despite being well-made and well-acted, Golda isn’t without its flaws. The sole focus on the Yom Kippur War means other aspects of Meir’s life are never explored in depth, which may disappoint viewers unfamiliar with her other accomplishments. Additionally, the film is almost relentlessly solemn throughout its running time, which can make it feel a bit heavy at times. Finally, while the acting is strong, the drama is more emotionally restrained than explosive, which may disappoint viewers looking for a more suspenseful or action-packed film.

In the end, Golda is a well-made and well-acted film that tells the story of a complex and influential world leader in trying times. Helen Mirren gives a tour-de-force performance as Golda Meir sure to earn awards buzz, and the film’s tight 100-minute running time allows it to focus on the essential elements of Meir’s life and career. While not flashy or always pleasant, I still found the film a worthwhile watch for anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating woman.