Rediscovering a Hollywood Satire: The Lost Gem of Jewish Satire in Film
The recent hurdles faced by the Academy Museum might have led to a silver lining—an opportunity to revive a forgotten classic that brilliantly satirizes Hollywood’s formative years. This is where the limited-edition reissue of Aben Kandel’s 1931 novel, Rabbi Burns, comes into play, capturing the essence of a bygone era.
The Spark Behind the Revival
Film historian Sam Wasson, renowned for his best-selling works on cinematic masterpieces such as Chinatown and Breakfast at Tiffany’s, found himself discontented with the museum’s initial lack of acknowledgment for the Jewish moguls who helped shape Hollywood. In a quest for reclamation, he made the commendable choice to publish Kandel’s scathing yet humorous narrative, which had long been out of print. Wasson took this step through his boutique press, Felix Farmer Press, named after the irreverent producer in Blake Edwards’ 1981 satire S.O.B.
The Story of Rabbi Burns
Rabbi Burns, a 264-page narrative, intricately weaves the tale of a rabbi in Los Angeles who grapples with the decision to leave his pulpit and accept a prestigious position at a film studio. The plot unfolds against the backdrop of his efforts to create a new house of worship tailored for his congregation of industry insiders, rivalling the opulence of Sid Grauman’s famed movie palaces. Brandon Millan, Wasson’s co-founder at Felix Farmer Press, emphasizes the importance of this book for today’s community, stating, “It feels important to share this book with this community right now.”
Kandel’s Acclaimed Background
Aben Kandel was noteworthy for both his novels and his contributions to film, with credits that include B-movies such as I Was a Teenage Werewolf and Trog, Joan Crawford’s last film. His writings are acknowledged for their sociological depth, pinpointing the nuances of Ashkenazi identity and the interplay between German Jewish elites and their Eastern European counterparts in early Los Angeles.
“Weaving humor with frank criticism of Jewish identity, Rabbi Burns offers an unparalleled perspective,” states Wasson, highlighting the importance of criticism as one of the defining traits of Jewish culture and the film moguls’ ability to resonate with their audience.
Connection to Jewish Hollywood
The reissue of Rabbi Burns features artwork of Los Angeles’ iconic Wilshire Boulevard Temple, evoking a rich history. Inside the book, readers can find photographs of Rabbi Edgar Magnin, who significantly influenced the temple’s inception and garnered support from Hollywood legends like Irving Thalberg and Louis B. Mayer during its construction in 1929.
Wasson has yet to receive feedback from the modern temple’s leadership, which underwent a lavish renovation supported by Hollywood’s current Jewish elite. “I’d be delighted if it offended and I’d be delighted if it didn’t,” he mused, showcasing the bold commentary Rabbi Burns encapsulates.
Conclusion: A Timely Rediscovery
This revival of Rabbi Burns comes at a moment when examining Hollywood’s historical narratives is more critical than ever. With a humorous yet biting take on the interplay of religion and the film industry, Aben Kandel’s work shines a necessary light on an essential chapter of American cinema that deserves to be explored once again.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to engage with a significant piece of Hollywood literature. Unlock a deeper understanding of the cultural complexities that shaped the film industry and explore the thematic richness of Rabbi Burns—available now from Felix Farmer Press.
For more illuminating literature on the history of Hollywood, check out The Hollywood Reporter for insights and stories about the glitz and grit of Tinseltown.
