Bar Refaeli Typecast as Sushi Waitress in First Feature Film!

Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
She’s been a red-carpet regular for years, but Monday marked the first time that Bar Refaeli attended the premiere of one of her own films.
The Sports Illustrated cover girl, equally well-known as the girlfriend of Leonardo DiCaprio, celebrated the new film not in Hollywood but in Rishon Lezion, where a large crowd turned out for the premiere of “Session,” an English-language drama directed by Israeli filmmaker Haim Bouzaglo.
Refaeli stars in the film as Eden, a sushi waitress and — typecasting alert! — beautiful young woman who attracts the attentions of a psychiatrist nearing his 50th birthday. In addition to a number of Israeli actors in smaller roles, the film co-stars Steven Bauer (“Scarface”) as the psychiatrist.
(Trivia: the Cuban-born Bauer also played a Mossad agent in the 1986 movie “Sword of Gideon.”)
Attending the screening without DiCaprio, Refaeli tried to tamp down expectations during an interview with Israel’s Ynet Web site, saying she viewed the film as “an introductory experience, something interesting and challenging.”
Her co-star was more effusive in describing her work. “She’s very good in the movie,” Bauer said. “Israel will be very proud of her.”
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
