This is a tale about how an idealistic young man is corrupted by modern society, how easy spiritualism can lead to materialism if the right checks and balances in own's life are not kept. The movie is set in modern Israel, but it might be anywhere else where the economy is booming and cheap labor is needed. The motto of the characters during the movie is "Don't be a frayer!" (sucker). James, the main character, strives not to be one. "Ani lo frayer" (I am not a frayer). In the process he will become a different man but, eventually, life will teach him a lesson that will push him to recover his lost innocence.
Finally, another important symbolism of the movie relates to Israel itself. The country has become in recent decades a full-fledged capitalist society back from the primitive socialist Zionism of the founding fathers, something well represented by the bustling city of Tel-Aviv full of American-style malls. I'd say the director is also trying to make a wake-up call to his fellow country men regarding the path the country has taken. Therefore, and in this sense, James' transformation embodies Israel own drift from the Zionist roots.
Finally, another important symbolism of the movie relates to Israel itself. The country has become in recent decades a full-fledged capitalist society back from the primitive socialist Zionism of the founding fathers, something well represented by the bustling city of Tel-Aviv full of American-style malls. I'd say the director is also trying to make a wake-up call to his fellow country men regarding the path the country has taken. Therefore, and in this sense, James' transformation embodies Israel own drift from the Zionist roots.