From Vienna to Jerusalem: The Century of Teddy Kollek

We meet Teddy Kollek as he overlooks Jerusalem, where he served as mayor from 1965-1993 and we join him as he revisits the past, comments on the present, and offers observations about the future. Using archival footage interwoven with modern photography, the film follows his career from his first fund-raising efforts (at his Bar Mitzvah!) in Vienna, through the foundation of the state of Israel up to the present day, where he continues to be active in political causes. During these years Jerusalem evolved from an impoverished, divided city into a united, bustling metropolis. Clinics, libraries and museums were established and the Jerusalem Foundation was created. He expresses his philosophy that "you can run a peaceful city only with a high degree of tolerance" and quotes David Ben-Gurion, who said "the state of Israel will be judged by its moral worth and human values." Our story closes with a toast of "L'chaim!" on Kollek's 83rd birthday. This well-rounded portrait of a man, a nation and a time is rich with insight. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Reed)