A Matter of Size Review

A Matter of Size Review - EDGE

Movie Review: A Matter of Size
by Roger Brigham
EDGE Contributor
Thursday Jul 1, 2010

There is a basic principle the rules in the world of sumo wrestling: stand your ground or be shoved aside. It is a theme that resonates throughout "A Matter of Size" and one that should resonate with the queer community.

Herzl (Itzek Cohen) is a fat lonely man who has just quit one job as a chef in dissatisfaction and is gaining weight while attending group therapy session with other don’t-wannabe whales and living with his mother. He finds happiness when he embraces his true girth and dedicates himself and his friends to the discipline of sumo, and finds greater happiness when he finds the courage to be honest instead of only saying things to please people. There is one character who comes out of the closet, but it is the overall story of the power of self-acceptance and integrity that makes this film a champion.

Fat people, guys in loin cloths, Jewish guys dreaming of going to Japan -- there are tons of possibilities for cheap shots and buffoon humor. Writers Sharon Maymon and Danny Cohen-Solal take none of them while delivering a story of good humor and subtle poignancy. Cohen, Levana Finkelstein as his girlfriend Mona and Dvir Benedek as his hot-headed friend and counterpoint are standouts in a solid cast.

Read this review at EDGE Boston.

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