Hot Docs 2008

Director Yishai Orian is one of the millions of proud Beetlemanics sprinkled throughout the world. Despite the vehicle's rough and noisy ride, underpowered motor and dubious distinction as Hitler's "car for the masses," the Volkswagen Beetle became the most produced car of a single design in history (Hitler himself is said to have sketched the prototype for what would become the Beetle). Sadly, Orian's beloved 40-year-old car is on its last legs and his beloved and very pregnant wife wants it scrapped. We join the filmmaker on his extremely funny and touching road trip as he introduces us to the people who owned, loved and even gave birth in his cherished car. As fatherhood looms, Orian is reluctant to let go of the past, and he debates his options to repair or sell the car. The Beetle was selected as the opening night film at this year's prestigious DocAviv Festival.
-Chris McDonald