Screenwriter and playwright Arlene Sarner is the type who holds grudges, especially against her ex-husband, who embroils her in a five-year custody battle over her two sons. Her husband wins the boys’ affections with his limousines, rock-star friends, and relaxed attitude about homework. Arlene is devastated. When she must see him, it is in a zone of “suffocating iciness.” Her kids suffer, but eventually grow up. When one son gets engaged, Arlene has to figure out how she can get through the family wedding and turns to her rabbi. “Instead of waiting for someone to ask for forgiveness,” he counsels, “offer it to him.” How can she do this? Can she accept some part of the blame and leave her grudges behind? Can she finally share and enjoy life events with a man she’s long hated?

Produced by The Braid/Jewish Women’s Theatre
USA, 2013
True story, Comedy/Drama
English
9 minutes