FILMS

Once a five star hotel in Jerusalem, the Hotel Diplomat became a temporary absorption center for hundreds of Russian Jews immigrating to Israel in the 1990s. Temporary turned into permanent as many of the 600 people stayed -- even until today. “Diplomat,” a documentary with a cinematic feel, tells the story of these warm, funny residents as they attempt to assimilate (or not?) into Israeli life. They create their own world, complete with music and poetry revues, second-hand stores and an on-site clinic. Music is the common thread throughout this charming true story.