Kissing Jessica Stein (2002)

The film offers an empathetic and nuanced portrayal of a woman exploring her sexuality through a same-sex relationship. It features a positive lesbian character and depicts the romantic connection with dignity, affirming the validity of sexual fluidity and self-discovery, even as the central relationship concludes.

The film portrays Judaism primarily through Jessica's family, emphasizing their strong cultural identity, traditions, and community. While Jessica experiences pressure regarding marriage expectations, the narrative frames these as loving, albeit sometimes overbearing, parental concerns rather than a critique of the faith itself. The film depicts Jewish life with warmth and nuance.