OLIM!

Project Overview

Format:
A 30-minute, single-camera sitcom. Mockumentary style,
with direct-to-camera interviews interspersed with narrative
scenes.

Concept:
Driven by growing global antisemitism, economic strife,
and a reshuffling of the world order, a new wave of Jews has
begun to wash up on Israel’s shores.

This influx of immigrants has provoked a range of questions from
average Israelis – questions like “Really?” and “Now?” and “What
are you, nuts?”

In an attempt to answer them, ITV dispatches a camera crew to
document the experiences of one such family of immigrants. The
crew follows these olim hadashim, recording their thoughts,
their fears, their foibles, and their failings, as they seek to
make a new life here in Israel.

Theme and Tone:
Although the motive force of the scenario – rising global
antisemitism – is very serious, the focus of the series is the
comic absurdity that results when two cultures collide. Both the
American and the Israeli characters reveal their cultural
excesses, but in a manner that is relatable and human.
Despite their struggles, the Shikmans’ experiences ultimately
affirm their choice to immigrate, as they find themselves
developing fuller, more gratifying lives, and a richer sense of
themselves.

A Note on Language:
The series is conducted in a mix of English,
Hebrew and, to a lesser extent, Russian and French, following
the trend of other hit series such as Fauda, Our Boys,
Kathmandu, and Tehran. Non-Hebrew dialogue will be accompanied
with Hebrew subtitles.