I recognize Jamie Elman from the Canadian cult teen comedy Student Bodies, and I remember Eli Batalion making me laugh with his tech comedy Appiness. But, I had never watched their efforts on YidLife Crisis, a web series created and starring Elman and Batalion that explores and celebrates Jewish culture through sketch comedy. After finding an audience online, the duo have since adapted their observational humour for live stage shows. Despite having a passion for their heritage, they’re still learning about their ancestry as well as current movements, such as the cultural initiative in Stockholm, Sweden.

Their sophomore feature Swedishkayt: YidLife Crisis in Stockholm is a marriage of Elman and Batalion’s achievements and their curiousity. After learning about a resurgence in Stockholm that encourages Jewish culture (including the use of the Yiddish language), the pair planned to perform a live show to entertain but, also, aquaint themselves with the “YidLife Crisis” experienced by the Sweedes.

Swedishkayt: YidLife Crisis in Stockholm doesn’t scream cinema. The concert film/documentary resembles more of a travelogue hosted by two quick-witted and genial comedians who share a bottomless supply of gratitude. If Elman and Batalion decide to release this on YouTube for their fans, I wouldn’t be surprised. However, that doesn’t take away from how sweet, charming, and essential viewing the film is. Elman and Batalion sure know how to teach people just as well as they know how to make them laugh.

**********

Do You Tweet? Follow These Tweeple:

Addison Wylie: @AddisonWylie