Mixed Blessings

Jennifer Kaplan profiles four interfaith couples in this thought-provoking documentary, subtitled “The Challenges of Raising Children in a Jewish-Christian Family.” Each of the interviewees talks about his or her childhood before discussing the subjects of marriage and children, while psychologists, sociologists, priests, and rabbis add additional comments about the challenges facing dual-faith households. Kevin and Eileen Lynch agreed to raise their kids Jewish, but Kevin changed his mind during Eileen's first pregnancy, which resulted in years of tension. In some cases, children develop strong opinions themselves: Sarah, adult daughter of Ned and Mary Rosenbaum (Celebrating Our Differences: Living Two Faiths in One Marriage), embraced Judaism over Catholicism while she was still in grade school (the Rosenbaums were surprised that Sarah made her choice at such an early age). Other couples—trying to navigate this tricky path—factor in the wishes of parents and in-laws, while some religious leaders advise against mixing faiths altogether. Although the topic is deeply emotional, the film captures some amusing moments, such as when Beth and Jonathan O'Connor-Chatinover's toddler daughter Claire describes herself as “Jewish and Jesus.” DVD extras include additional interviews (with the families, members of the clergy, and various experts), a slideshow, and a statement by the filmmaker, whose own interfaith relationship provided the inspiration for making the film. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)