Yentl

Yentl

By Barbra Streisand

  • Genre: Musicals
  • Release Date: 1983-12-09
  • Advisory Rating: PG
  • Runtime: 2h 13min
  • Director: Barbra Streisand
  • Production Company: Ladbroke
  • Production Country: United States of America
  • iTunes Price: USD 14.99
  • iTunes Rent Price: USD 3.99
6.6/10
6.6
From 216 Ratings

Description

Based on a short story, "Yentl, the Yeshiva Boy," by Isaac Bashevis Singer. Yentl is the story of a young Eastern European woman, who, very early in our century (pre-WWI), disguises herself as a boy in order to pursue her passion for studying the Torah. Yentl (Streisand) has no trouble passing for a boy as she pursues her studies, but when she falls in love with a fellow student (Mandy Patinkin) she cannot, of course, express her feelings. Circumstances of Jewish law force the "boy" Yentl to marry a girl (Amy Irving), but the concealment must continue and Yentl must invent reasons for a long-delayed "consumation" of the marriage. Finally, she reveals her secret to her bride, who, after a time of shock, accepts Yentl for what she is.

Trailer

Photos

Reviews

  • Lame

    1
    By Madman2333
    Lame movie
  • One of Barbra's Greatest Movies of All Time!!!

    5
    By rocknrollchick5
    Hands down, this is one of my favorite movies of all time. The acting was nothing short of phenomenal, the story was wonderful, and one thing that I REALLY enjoyed was how all the songs in the movie progressed with the plot. I love when musicals tell stories like that. And do I even have to mention that one of a kind singing voice that Barbra has??? (This was my first time watching it since I was at least 15-16, I had a vhs copy of Yentl and would watch it all the time.) Every time she sang one of the songs, I would literally get goosebumps! A wonderful movie from such a talented woman! I really love how this movie is all about conquering your fears, going after your dreams, and at the same time, learning how to be comfortable in your own skin.
  • Confused

    1
    By Nech409
    The movie is so confusing and I didn't even watch the movie all I watched was the trailer
  • Streisand’s most under-rated performance and film

    5
    By Mark133West
    This film suffered greatly from being released amidst some gender bending comedies and amidst all the negativity about the “vanity” nature of this project and criticism that Streisand was too old to play a young girl much less a young boy. Well, luckily for the modern day viewer, we can enjoy this film without the baggage. Thankfully, the film holds up well. Unlike the gender bending comedies of its day, this film takes itself very seriously. That’s not to say it’s without humor but the message that there’s nothing humorous about a woman having to give up her femininity to pursue knowledge rings loud and clear. Those who enjoy Streisand’s more raucous comedic and musical performances may need to adjust to how she portrays Yentl. It’s understated. Yentl doesn’t want to draw attention to herself like Fanny Brice. She’s not looking for stardom; she’s looking to be an academic. So, Streisand nails this performance although not having the true showy scenes like Funny Girl, this performance gets lost among Streisand’s other musical performances. And that’s a shame. The film is very nearly monochromatic looking. The melodies of the songs blend together. There’s nothing close to Broadway belting until the very final seconds of the film. All together, the movie is a single vision. It’s muted visually and emotionally, much as Yentl needs to be to survive. And speaking of the ending…it’s really the only part that I have questioned over the years. Not because it’s Streisand (again) singing on a boat. It’s because I’m not sure we needed a happier ending or a hopeful ending. But it does fit with Streisand’s vision and if there ever was or will be a Streisand movie, Yentl is it from start to finish. So yes, she’s a 40 something woman playing a 17 year old boy. Yes, she sings every song of the movie. Yes, she directed and wrote and produced it. But if you can get passed that baggage, you’ll find a very under-rated film. If you can’t, this isn’t the film for you.
  • Depth of performance and purpose

    5
    By Bobinmo
    Barbara Streisand dared to create more than just a movie. She shared a piece of her soul. There’s also a slice of it within each of us for those who’re are willing to seek it out. Life is supposed to be about more than just following the rules. It’s about finding and following our inner spark that’s driven by something more - divine intervention. For those who ponder deeply the lesson that’s shared in this remarkable move, we too can have more than just a piece of the sky.
  • Awesome

    5
    By Kaygross
    I love musicals and Barbra streisand is such a great sing and actress ... I love this as mush as fiddler on the roof and victor victoria and my fair lady and Chicago and sound of music
  • My favorite

    5
    By Dystonicgal
    My all time favorite movie. Barbara Streisand in her best role. She's magnificent . This was a great film that explained my feelings toward my heritage. Love this film...
  • Brilliant!

    5
    By Meep42
    Nobody can truthfully say that this movie isn't anything short of wonderful. It features the amazing voice and acting talents of Barbra Streisand in one of her best roles along with a wonderful story and cast of characters. Yentl is thoroughly entertaining and great considering that it was Barbra's first movie as a director.
  • Great!

    5
    By Booserhead
    This movie is one of my most favorites of all time. The songs are amazing!!!!!!!!!
  • Uhh hello?

    4
    By krm<3
    What's up doc? iTunes rly needs it

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