Trudy Gold: Jewish Mothers

A look at the Jewish mother, who has been depicted as myth, matriarch and even monster. As one trawls through Hollywood, British films and even BT commercials what emerges is an extraordinary stereotype, overprotective, demanding, feeding, generally sexless, over-emotional, materialistic and aspirational for her husband and children. The presentation features archetypal Jewish mothers from the first talkie, 'The Jazz Singer', in the 20s to more recent films such as 'Suzie Gold', via 'Exodus', 'Over Brooklyn the Bridge', 'Goodbye Columbus' and others. Are these creations affectionate reminiscences of Jewish sons or just downright malicious, and if so, why do we still laugh.