Comments on: A Tarantino Purim?

By: Simon Holloway

Simon Holloway — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:24:36 +0000

That’s a great comparison, Liz! Inglourious Basterds is one of my favourite films, but I never noticed the connection with the megillah, which seems obvious now that you point it out. I disagree, however, that Haman is a “clear” descendant of Amalek (the connection between “Haman the Agagite” and Agag from 1 Samuel is midrashic), and I’d also like to point out the fact that the execution of Haman and his sons was not necessarily on a gallows.
The Hebrew verb + noun clause that denotes the manner of execution can either refer to execution on a gallows, impalement on a stake, or crucifixion (which was sometimes done with the hands above one’s head, and sometimes with the hands outstretched) on a cross or plank. Exactly what it refers to in any given instance is a matter of debate, which is compounded by the recognition that crucifixion in Israel/Palestine appears to have predated the Romans.
These are minor points, which don’t affect your argument in any way, but I’m a pedant for these matters and I cannot resist

By: The Book of Esther | Christian Chat

The Book of Esther | Christian Chat — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:06:10 +0000

[...] Galus Australis » A Tarantino Purim? [...]

By: Stuart

Stuart — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:50:20 +0000

Thanks for that Frosh.
Perhaps a play could be modelled on recent films of the book of Esther that a quick search came up with:
One Night with the King
http://www.christiananswers.net/spotlight/movies/2005/onenightwiththeking2005.html
The Bible Stories Esther
http://blogcritics.org/video/article/dvd-review-/the-bible-stories-esther

By: frosh

frosh — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 05:53:11 +0000

On the topic of adapting Megillat Esther to the theatre…
Yesterday morning, I was one of a number of people who were privileged enough to hear Mark Symons read Megillat Esther. For those who have not shared this privilege, Mark uses different voices/accents (and wears a different hat) for each and every character’s ‘speaking part.’
Mark’s reading has been described by some as a “masterpiece”, and in my opinion, this is an appropriate description.
As the reading progressed, it left me eagerly anticipating what voice would be provided to the next character to have their debut speaking part.
As brilliant as Mark’s one man megillah show was, it got me thinking: How would Megillat Esther present as a stage play, if there was no alteration of the Megillah script?
I think it would be an interesting project, perhaps for a frum theatre group (there must be a few out there). But be warned any actors auditioning for the part of Mordechai – contrary to what one might assume, he does not have much of a speaking part!