Coping Mechanism

A film by Shalhin Productions – Children’s Educational Cinema, which follows a group of primary school children in the city of Rishon LeZion (outside Tel Aviv) during a student council election campaign. Guy, Batia, and Amir are all running for Student Council Leader, whilst simultaneously having to deal with the usual challenges, fears, and disappointments in and outside of school. Meanwhile, a professional gang of burglars and robbers goes on a crime spree that sends shockwaves through the lives of students, teachers, and parents alike. The children’s, parents’ and teachers’ storylines all intersect against the backdrop of a school gym break-in and the vandalising of the basketball court. When the children’s and criminals’ paths cross, a major fallout ensues which brings the various characters together.

Directed by Shaul Shalhin, Coping Mechanism leans on a strong ensemble — Shifra Milshtein, Roberto Pollak, Sandra Sade — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1989.