Ariel Bronz Stars in a Bold New Dark Comedy

The film Yes! presents itself as a savage comedy, serving as one of the darkest satiric creations in recent cinema. Directed and written by Nadav Lapid, the film examines the intersection of art, survival, and nationalism within Israel during the Gaza war.

At the center of the narrative is Y., a wiry, bearded pianist and comedian portrayed by Ariel Bronz. Y. Is an avant-garde musician who, alongside his wife Yasmin—a dancer and hip-hop instructor—struggles to maintain a career while living in a modest apartment in Tel Aviv with their young son, Noah.

The story follows the couple’s decision to abandon their avant-garde principles following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks. To survive in a country overwhelmed by trauma and rage, Y. And Yasmin choose to conform to the Israeli mainstream, selling their art and their souls to the nation’s elite.

The Cost of Survival

The film portrays the couple taking any available gig to make ends meet, effectively becoming entertainers for the country’s high-end clients and military leadership. This transition is highlighted in a scene where go-go dancers entertain Israel’s army chief at a wild party during the war.

They start to be entertainers slash clowns … In order to survive in this place

Ariel Bronz

Y.’s descent into mainstream conformity reaches a peak when he dyes his hair blond and accepts a high-stakes commission. He is tasked with composing a new Israeli national anthem featuring bellicose lyrics. This project is funded by a Russian oligarch who demands that the music praise the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the atrocities committed in Gaza over the preceding 18 months.

Throughout this process, Y. Bonds with his ex-girlfriend, Leah, who is employed by the IDF, further weaving his professional compromises into his personal relationships.

Production and Critical Reception

Nadav Lapid described the process of casting the film as difficult, noting that it was hard to find Israeli actors willing to participate in the project. Despite these challenges, the film has been received by Israeli critics as monumental and provocative.

The film’s journey through the international circuit began with its world premiere at the Directors’ Fortnight section of the Cannes Film Festival on May 22, 2025. It was later released theatrically in France on September 17, 2025, by Les Films du Losange.

In the United States, Yes! opened in select theaters in late March 2026. The production, which has a running time of 150 minutes, has recorded a box office total of $421,835.

Industry Impact and Performance

Ariel Bronz, a 41-year-old actor previously known for his work in the esoteric corners of the Israeli theater scene, has seen a surge in visibility due to his role. His performance earned him a best actor nomination at Israel’s academy award ceremony in 2025, although he did not win the award.

The film arrives at a time of significant tension within the global film community. As Israel faces accusations of committing genocide in Gaza, the Israeli film industry has been subjected to a boycott by thousands of international film professionals.

By focusing on the internal contradictions of artists who rally around the flag to perform for troops and elites, Lapid uses Yes! to question the endemic nationalism of his home country through a lens of crackling satire and bold cinematic innovation.