Since he was a child, Roman Lapshin has been haunted by a secret his late grandfather revealed to him when he was only 12 years old — the mysterious and troubling origin of thousands of pieces of missing artwork his grandfather, a master painter who died without anyone knowing his name, had painted over his lifetime. Determined to redeem his grandfather’s name and artistic legacy, Roman investigates and tries to expose the murky fate of his grandfather’s artwork. But finding the paintings will mean going against the wishes of his entire family, who have been guarding this secret all along. It also means confronting the notorious and powerful man at the center of this secret, whom Roman believes exploited his grandfather when he was a desperate, recent immigrant to a new country. Portrayal follows Roman across three continents and five nations as he slowly puts together the pieces of this mysterious familial puzzle and comes to terms with his family’s legacy as well as his own personal search for restoration, growth, and healing.

Featuring a special introduction by director Billie Mintz.

Accompanying the film premiere is a discussion with director Billie Mintz, film subjects Roman Lapshin and Asya Lapshin, and moderator Rabbi Jonathan Fisch. To view the conversation please click here.

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Sponsored by Jessie Wolfson.

The Miami Jewish Film Festival virtual program is made possible with the generous support of Benjamin Nahum and Tamar Roodner.