Lebowski Fest abides in Jerusalem

May 12, 2011 - 10:33 AM by David

Break out the bowling shoes and the White Russians – the first known Israeli Lebowksi Fest is slated to take place on June 16 in Jerusalem – naturally at a bowling alley in Talpiot. And not on “f****** Shabbes!”

A tradition begun in 2002 in Louisville, Kentucky to celebrate the Coen Brother’s iconic 1998 film, The Big Lebowski, the gathering has since spread around the world. Fans show up in their favorite character’s outfits like Jeff Bridges’ ‘The Dude’ and John Goodman’s Jewish-by-marriage ‘Walter’ and recite their memorable lines ala The Rocky Horror Picture Show – a comparison they would undoubtedly bristle at.

Jerusalem organizer of the event, esteemed musician Eliyahu Sidikman has promised an authentic Lebowski experience – including a screening of film, a bowling tournament, a live band performing the songs of the Dude’s favorite band, Creedence Clearwater Revival, a costume contest, a trivia contest, and, of course, White Russians on tap.

It’s unfortunate that the multi-Oscar-winning brother film directing team, Joel and Ethan Coen, won’t be around for the event. They’re going to be here next week, though, as guests of Tel Aviv University, where they will accept the Dan David Prize, an award of $1 million, hold a press conference and participate in a symposium.

The Dan David Prize is an international enterprise, endowed by the Dan David Foundation and headquartered at Tel Aviv University. The prizes are intended to encourage innovation and are given for three “dimensions”: past, present and future. The Coens have been awarded it in the present dimension, for enriching and influencing life today through their films.

Fans of The Big Lebowski would surely drink to that.Three thousand years of beautiful tradition, from Moses to Sandy Koufax… and now to Jerusalem is a feat that shouldn’t be missed. For more information, email lebowskifestisrael@gmail.com or go to the Facebook page.

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