Yentl, released in 1983, is a musical drama film directed, co-written, co-produced, and starring Barbra Streisand, who also produced the film's soundtrack. The film is based on a play by Leah Napolin and Isaac Bashevis Singer, and follows the story of a young Jewish woman named Yentl who wishes to study religious scripture despite gender limitations and societal expectations in 1904 Poland.
After her father's death, Yentl realizes that she cannot continue her studies as a woman in her society. In a moment of desperation, she decides to cut her hair, don male clothing, and adopt a male identity to attend a yeshiva, a traditional Jewish institution of learning. She adopts the name Anshel and manages to keep her true identity a secret from her classmates and teachers.
At the yeshiva, Yentl finds herself drawn towards Avigdor, a student who is engaged to Hadass, a young woman he does not love. Yentl develops feelings for Avigdor and tries to help him break off the engagement. However, she eventually reveals her true gender to Avigdor, and he rejects her. Heartbroken, Yentl continues her studies until the day of her graduation, when she is forced to leave the yeshiva and return to her former life as a woman.
The film is a poignant exploration of themes surrounding gender, identity, and the pursuit of knowledge in a society that often restricts access to education and opportunities. It features outstanding performances by Barbra Streisand, Mandy Patinkin, and Amy Irving, and contains several memorable musical numbers, including the Oscar-winning song "The Way He Makes Me Feel."
