The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz (1974)

*The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz* introduces us to the ambitious younger son of a working-class Jewish family in Montreal, Duddy Kravitz, who relentlessly yearns to make a name for himself in society. This compelling film chronicles his short, often dubious, rise to power, charting his increasingly complex and changing relationships with family and friends as he pursues his goals with unwavering zeal. Along the way, the narrative delves deeply into the pervasive themes of anti-Semitism and the profound responsibilities, or lack thereof, which come with adulthood. Ted Kotcheff's direction elevates *The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz* to an essential entry on any "Best Ted Kotcheff Movies" list. Often considered a crowning achievement in his diverse filmography, Kotcheff masterfully adapts Mordecai Richler's iconic novel, eliciting a career-defining early performance from Richard Dreyfuss as the complex, driven protagonist. Kotcheff's skill is evident in his ability to balance the film's biting satire with its raw emotional core, navigating Duddy's morally ambiguous journey with a keen eye for character and social commentary. Its critical acclaim, including winning the Golden Bear at the 24th Berlin International Film Festival, solidified its status as a seminal Canadian film and a testament to Kotcheff's talent for crafting character-driven narratives that are both culturally specific and universally resonant.