Mirele Efros, "the Jewish Queen Lear," was the masterpiece of influential Yiddish playwright Jacob Gordin. Berta Gersten gives a memorable performance as Mirele, a wealthy and pious widow whose devotion to her children extends to hand-picking a wife for her eldest son. Unfortunately, she gravely mistakes the young woman's character.—National Center for Jewish Film

Mirele Efros (Berta Gersten), a wealthy widow, dominates her family in all aspects, in the name of devotion, including the choice of picking the bride for her son. But, Shaindel (Ruth Elbaum'), as a daughter-in-law, schemes to gain control of the Efros-family wealth and, when accomplished, heaps indignity-after-indignity upon her mother-in-law. But, in time, Shaindel goes to Mirele and begs forgiveness.—Les Adams <[email protected]>