Film Review: UNHOLY
by Karen Pecota

Daisy Friedman, USA  2025

Billed as a dark comedy, UNHOLY, is loosely based on this film’s director, Daisy Friedman and her personal journey as a former feeding tube user with a history of short bowel syndrome. Friedman says, “I made UNHOLY because I want to show other disabled people that there is space for them in their families, cultures, and religions, even if their practice looks different than others.” Adding, “This film is an ode to people living with chronic illness and disability in culturally traditional families.”

Synopsis:

Noa (Olivia Nikkanen), a college student, diagnosed with short bowel syndrome must begin a nourishment regiment by using a feeding tube. It is the season for Noa’s family Passover Seder meal. It will be the first time Noa will not be able to enjoy eating the traditional foods that accompany its traditional prayers.

The relatives in attendance of their special Jewish celebration are not the most sensitive or understanding of Noa’s predicament. They are present to enjoy all that is prepared for them. Noa’s parents, Benjamin (Danny Burstein) and Aviva (Laura Patinkin) understand that it will be a challenge for Noa to not engage normally; but they did not anticipate the emotional difficulty.

Noa’s ongoing rejection of the foods set before her caused more anxiety than she was ready to handle feeling self-conscious, isolated, and lonely among her clan. Once the alarm on her medical device erupted, as a warning sign her feeding tube needs assistance, that stopped all table conversation. Noa could no longer remain congenial. In disparity, she left the room.

One of the most captivating scenes in UNHOLY is a conversation between Noa and Benjamin after a frustrating episode around beloved traditional foods—to eat or not to eat. Sadly, Noa is forced to exit the celebration causing embarrassment, frustration, and feeling so alone. She shares, “I used to feel holy when I said a prayer or would eat our traditional foods. What if I never feel holy again?” Benjamin looks deeply into her eyes and feels her pain, then begins to pray over her in Hebrew.

Friedman’s insights toward those with disabilities and her desire to support them is truly a story to be told in UNHOLY.