Behind the Blockade (film #12 in the Pre-State section of Stephen Spielberg Jewish Film Archive). [Category: Sleaze & Outsider]

This late 40s film documents the agricultural development of pre-state Israel by Jewish pioneers. This involved lots of hard work and the ever present threat of violence. It’s an interesting story, but it’s told rather dryly, with rousing narration that nevertheless fails to stir the passions. This has historical value, but it’s one of the less interesting films on the Spielberg Archive.

Ratings: Camp/Humor Value: *. Weirdness: *. Historical Interest: ****. Overall Rating: **.