Live and Become (2005)

In the heart of the 1980s, Ethiopia's black Falashas are finally acknowledged as legitimate Jews, and are covertly transported to Israel. Among them is Schlomo, a nine-year-old Christian boy, who adopts the identity of a deceased Jewish boy at the desperate request of the boy's dying mother. Tragically, upon their arrival in Israel, his adoptive mother passes away, leaving Schlomo to be adopted by a loving family, yet he can't shake off his sorrow and longing for his biological mother. Throughout this journey, Schlomo contends with the harsh reality of racism, both subtle and overt, and struggles with his concealed identity. As he matures, he falls in love with Sarah, who, despite her love for him, is bound by her father's deep-seated racism. Schlomo, in a quest to gain acceptance, attempts to prove his "Jewishness" by winning a Bible interpretation contest, but it does little to change Sarah's father's prejudice. Driven by disappointment, Schlomo reveals to the police his true identity, only to be dismissed by an indifferent officer. Schlomo's adoptive parents, seeing his struggle, send him to France to pursue a medical degree. Upon his return, he marries Sarah, who subsequently loses her family and her status as a "white Jew". When Schlomo finally confesses his true identity to Sarah, she leaves him, feeling betrayed not by his deception, but by his lack of trust in her love for him. With the help of his adoptive mother, they reconcile. Yet, Sarah has one condition for their reunion: Schlomo must meet his real mother again. As a doctor, Schlomo takes a job at an Ethiopian refugee camp, where he finds his biological mother still alive, bringing the poignant tale full circle.

Live and Become is a drama movie featuring Moshe Abebe.

Live and Become is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and Tubi TV and it's also available on Chai Flicks.

It is also possible to buy Live and Become on Kino Now.