Ten years after Yossi & Jagger, Israeli director Eytan Fox brings us a quietly devastating yet redemptive sequel. Yossi follows the aftermath—not the romance. Where the first film celebrated love in secrecy, this one deals with grief in silence, and the painful, necessary journey toward healing.
Yossi Official Trailer
Yossi Summary | |
|---|---|
| Title: | Yossi |
| Movies Info: | Israel (2012) |
| Length: | 84 minutes |
| Is Firebird BL? | Yes, there's a BL romance. |
| Genre: | Drama / romance / Boy's love |
Plot
Yossi (Ohad Knoller), once a confident IDF commander, is now a lonely 34-year-old cardiologist living a reclusive life in Tel Aviv. Haunted by the death of his lover, Jagger, a decade earlier, he numbs himself with work and casual sex, yet remains emotionally paralyzed. A chance encounter with Jagger’s mother reignites his pain, forcing him to confront the truth he’s long buried.
On an impulsive trip south, Yossi meets a group of young soldiers, including the openly gay and charming Tom (Oz Zehavi). In Tom, Yossi glimpses a freer, more honest world—one where love doesn’t have to hide. Through a journey from emotional stagnation to gentle self-acceptance, Yossi may finally find the courage to step into the light again.
Yossi Cast
Charactor
A reclusive cardiologist still mourning the loss of his lover from a decade ago.
Ohad Knoller (אוהד קנולר)
Ohad Knoller is a seasoned Israeli actor best known for his roles in Yossi & Jagger and Srugim. In Yossi, his portrayal of restrained grief and tender vulnerability earned widespread acclaim. His ability to communicate depths of emotion through silence is a hallmark of his craft.
A confident and compassionate young soldier who opens Yossi’s heart to new possibilities.
Oz Zehavi (עוז זהבי)
Oz Zehavi brings vibrant charm to the role of Tom, symbolizing a more open and accepting generation. Known for his work in Israeli cinema and TV, Zehavi’s performance in Yossi helped broaden his audience and solidify his presence as a queer icon in Israeli film.
Director
Eytan Fox
Eytan Fox is one of Israel’s most influential filmmakers, known for his bold and emotional explorations of gay identity and Middle Eastern geopolitics. From Yossi & Jagger (2002) to The Bubble and Walk on Water, Fox crafts stories that blend personal vulnerability with social commentary. In Yossi, his matured direction reflects a deepening empathy, giving space for quiet transformations and honest self-reflection.
Movie Highlight
Sequel to a Queer Classic
Yossi is the official follow-up to the beloved Israeli gay romance Yossi & Jagger (2002), reuniting director Eytan Fox and lead actor Ohad Knoller after a decade.Emotional Evolution Through Cinematography
The film’s transition from cold, shadowy interiors to warm, sunlit coastlines mirrors Yossi’s emotional thaw—from grief to the hope of new love.A Standout Performance by Ohad Knoller
Knoller’s nuanced portrayal of midlife melancholy and rebirth garnered praise from outlets like Variety and Screen International.Generation Gap Explored Through Queerness
The contrast between Yossi’s closet-bound past and Tom’s proud openness reflects the shift in Israeli queer visibility and acceptance between 2002 and 2012.Iconic Ending with Keren Ann’s “Lay Your Head Down”
The final beach scene, underscored by this haunting track, became a cult moment for queer cinema fans—symbolizing rebirth and vulnerability.
Yossi Review
Review
⭐ Story — ★★★★½
The narrative is understated but profound, gracefully navigating themes of grief, aging, self-acceptance, and generational change. The contrast between Yossi’s internalized trauma and Tom’s openness reflects Israel’s evolving social landscape and makes the story both personal and political.
⭐ Acting — ★★★★★
Ohad Knoller delivers one of the finest performances of his career, embodying Yossi with restrained melancholy and heartbreaking nuance. His body language speaks volumes, from his hesitations to the rare, radiant smiles. Oz Zehavi’s Tom is a beacon of youthful energy, grounding the film with sincere warmth.
⭐ Chemistry — ★★★★½
The chemistry here isn’t fiery—it’s slow-burning and careful. Every glance, every hesitation feels earned. The film’s emotional climax—when Tom disrobes in front of Yossi, asking for nothing but vulnerability—is one of the most powerful queer film moments in years.
⭐ Production — ★★★★½
Though modest in budget, Yossi is cinematically rich. The shift from shadowy interiors to sun-drenched coastlines mirrors Yossi’s emotional arc. The score, featuring Keren Ann’s “Lay Your Head Down,” is a haunting touch that lingers long after the credits roll.
⭐ Ending — ★★★★½
The final scene isn’t about resolution—it’s about possibility. As Yossi smiles by the beach, whispering “Forever” to Tom, we know he’s no longer imprisoned by the past. It’s a rare, hopeful ending that feels earned.
Yossi Information
Awards & Recognition
🏆 Tribeca Film Festival 2012 – Official Selection (Best Narrative Feature)
🎥 Screen International: “A deft generational fable about the old being pushed to learn from the young.”
🎬 IndieWire: “Possibly Fox’s most accomplished work to date.”
🎧 Soundtrack by Keren Ann – “Lay Your Head Down” became a cult favorite among fans of queer cinema.
Where to Watch
Related Links
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