Adar 17, coinciding with March 27, marks the first yahrzeit of Senator Joseph Lieberman, z”l, cherished Democratic senator from Connecticut who distinguished himself on Capitol Hill as a true mensch. In the words of Jonathan Gruber, the documentarian who directed “Centered: Joe Lieberman,” he was a man of “sincerity, honesty, civility, humility, self-awareness and an unmatched sense of humor.”
Gruber said, “On the anniversary of his passing, I hope this film inspires the viewers to see the possibility of progress through dialogue, compromise and compassion.” The documentary was two years in the making. The final cut was approved by Lieberman six days before his death at age 82, precipitated by a fall.
Gruber has directed several films about Jewish topics, including “Jewish Soldiers in Blue and Green,” “Upheaval: The Journey of Menachem Begin,” and “Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story.” During his more than 25 years directing, writing and producing acclaimed documentaries, Gruber has been known for building deep trust with his interview subjects. When he initially approached Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, about this project, they were very hesitant. But at their meeting, a Christian cameraman piped into the conversation, saying how important it would be for the world to learn about such a religious and caring individual.
Hearing this, the Liebermans acquiesced to making the film.
In a commendable gesture, Regal Theaters stepped up to host the documentary for four showings over two days across the U.S. Documentaries are rarely shown in large movie theaters. Locally, the film played on March 18 and 19 in theaters in Secaucus, Nanuet, New Rochelle, Deer Park and Manhattan. At the New Rochelle showing, the film was followed by a Q&A session hosted by Rabbi Ethan Tucker, rosh yeshiva at Hadar and Hadassah Lieberman’s son. Other showings hosted individuals affiliated with the Liebermans.
The film captures pivotal moments in Lieberman’s 40-plus years in public service. He is seen as a moderate voice during one of the most divided eras in U.S. history. It highlights his ability to stand firm in his beliefs while navigating tough decisions and opposition from both sides of the aisle. Gruber brings archival footage and personal interviews to help the viewer understand Lieberman’s perseverance, commitment to unity and most importantly, his bold vision for a better future for the next generations.
The film includes a segment about Lieberman’s failed attempt at becoming the first Jewish vice president of the U.S. in 2000. The nail-biting night after the election, when the popular vote indicated that he and Al Gore had easily won, is documented by scenes of the family gathering at his side and their all-night vigil ending with the notification of the Supreme Court’s decision for George W. Bush. But the very next day, Gore and Lieberman appeared before the nation as dignified and confident leaders to offer their concession in a gentlemanly manner.
The film shows footage of Lieberman with Bill Clinton as a young man and their continuing relationship for many years. Notwithstanding this close relationship, Lieberman was vocal in his chastisement of Clinton’s indiscretions, which Clinton readily accepted.
Lieberman’s Jewish life is highlighted by several poignant scenes in the “Centered.” The opening scene shows Lieberman carefully and properly adorning his tallit for morning prayer. The film shows a meeting between Lieberman and the Lubavitcher Rebbe in which Lieberman is excited to share ideas about world affairs with this Jewish giant. In another segment, Lieberman walks to the Capitol on a Friday night accompanied by Secret Service officials rather than desecrating the Sabbath. Shabbat was the topic of a book authored by Lieberman in which he was fond of quoting Ahad HaAm’s adage, “More than the Jews have kept the Sabbath, the Sabbath has kept the Jews.”
The scenes in the film with Hadassah at his side are testimony to the harmonious and loving relationship they maintained. Referring to him as “Joey,” Hadassah can be seen throughout his career, serving as an anchor, soother and visionary. Lieberman was also well known for his unusually close ties to Republican Senators John McCain and Lindsay Graham, the trio often referred to as the “three amigos,” regardless of possible political differences.
Among Lieberman’s major political accomplishments are his advocacy for the Clean Air Act, his spearheading the Department of Homeland Security, his role in creating the 9/11 Commission, his driving force in the reorganization of FEMA after Hurricane Katrina, his advocacy for civil rights beginning with his march alongside Dr. Martin Luther King as a young man in 1963, his pivotal role in the Affordable Care Act and his challenging of the entertainment industry regarding children’s exposure to violent and inappropriate content in video games.
“Centered” is a most appropriate name for a documentary depicting the personal and public life of an individual who “prioritized people over politics.” The documentary tackles Lieberman’s difficult and sometimes controversial approaches to issues, offering an honest look at his inner strength and conviction.
Joe Lieberman (1942-2024) led with dignity and will be remembered as the “ultimate mensch.”
