Y-Kollektiv

Those who grow up in the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community have their lives predetermined: what to wear, what to believe in, who to marry. Those who want to break out of the rigid system of the ultra-Orthodox are usually cast out. They have to leave their families behind, their children, their support. Finding their way in modern society, without the familiar rules, can be overwhelming.

The reporter duo Theresa Breuer and Vanessa Schlesier accompany Esti, who has already been to a rehab clinic several times for alcoholism. She left the ultra-orthodox Jewish community and her husband two years ago and is therefore rarely allowed to see her son. In the ultra-religious Jerusalem district of Mea Shearim, the reporters meet Nachi, an artist who grew up here. Nachi explains to them how he manages to walk between both worlds. He also takes them to Joelisch Kraus and his extended family, a well-known ultra-Orthodox who talks to them about the clear rules of the religion.

But how difficult is it to leave this closed community?