Fiddler’s Journey to the Big Screen

Synopsis

A captivating documentary that pays tribute to the iconic film “Fiddler on the Roof” which The New Yorker once hailed as “the most powerful movie musical ever made.” Narrated by Jeff Goldblum this engaging film chronicles director Norman Jewison’s quest to recreate the lost world of Jewish life in Tsarist Russia (present-day Ukraine) and re-envision the beloved stage hit as a wide-screen epic. Throughout the documentary, the film pays tribute to the late Topol’s unforgettable performance as Tevye, celebrating his lasting impact on the story.

Directed by Oscar-nominated documentarian Daniel Raim “Fiddler’s Journey” delves into the intricate creative process behind this cinematic masterpiece. The documentary features rare behind-the-scenes footage original storyboards and never-before-seen stills that reveal the challenges and triumphs encountered by Jewison and his team. The film boasts interviews with key figures including Jewison Topol (Tevye) composer John Williams production designer Robert F. Boyle film critic Kenneth Turan lyricist Sheldon Harnick and actresses Rosalind Harris Michele Marsh and Neva Small (Tevye’s daughters). Additionally the documentary highlights the late Harry Belafonte’s appearance in Jewison’s television directorial debut “Tonight with Belafonte,” drawing a connection between these two entertainment legends.

“Fiddler’s Journey to the Big Screen” is a must-watch for both “Fiddler on the Roof” enthusiasts and film aficionados as it whisks us away on a journey through time weaving together the vibrant tapestry of Jewish life in Tsarist Russia and its enduring impact on the world of cinema.