9

SATURDAY

Israel is a “trance superpower,” asserts somebody in Psychedelic Zion, but perhaps that boast should be cast in the past tense. Isri Halpern’s 2000 documentary is about the rise and fall of Peace and Love Productions, a laid-back troika that promoted biweekly raves in the Israeli countryside. Influenced by Hinduism and DJ culture, Berto, Yoni, and Revital brought big beats and chants of “Bom Shiva!” to a country where suicide bombers and required military service could harsh anyone’s mellow. The promoters sold water, music, and good vibes, and they were refreshingly candid about the use of products they didn’t provide, notably Ecstasy and LSD. Indeed, the tendency of Israeli ravers to call these events “acid parties” probably provoked the cops whose raids became increasingly common. Berto, Yoni, and Revital all left Israel, but the beat goes on—at least at this screening, which will be followed by a “breakdance/glowstick showcase.” The film screens at 10 p.m. at the District of Columbia Jewish Community Center’s Aaron and Cecile Goldman Theater, 1529 16th St. NW. $10. (202) 777-3247. (Mark Jenkins)