The Beetle

New Zealand Premiere

Director Yishai Orian loves his Beetle. He is one of the millions of proud Beetle owners sprinkled throughout the world. Despite its 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. It has been said that 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 very pregnant wife is not amused. She wants it scrapped in favour of a more family oriented car or at least one that will get her to the hospital on time. As fatherhood looms, Orian is reluctant to let go of the past, and he debates his options to repair or sell the car. Attempting to keep his beloved car, Yishai goes on a journey that begins with the previous owners of the beetle, continues to Jordan to renovate the old car, and ends with the birth of his first child.

The exciting, funny, sad, and intimate memories of the beetle’s previous owners blend with the director’s personal story.