Bookends

Nate is on top of the world. With a cute partner, a group of fun New York friends, and big writing dreams, he is ready to fly.

And then he crashes. Suddenly dumped by his boyfriend and finding himself totally broke, Nate seeks out the only people who will take him in: Grandpa Saul and Grandma Miriam, his sweet, offbeat grandparents (played by Academy Award winner F. Murray Abraham and Caroline Aaron). Despite their own major life complications, they welcome him into their lovely Jewish old folks' home.

Searching for meaning amid the seniors, Nate discovers unexpected connections and unearthed emotions. And when his Holocaust-surviving grandfather shows signs of cognitive decline that his grandmother refuses to acknowledge, Nate finds himself torn between his desire to flee, family responsibilities, and an unexpected romance with his grandparents’ handsome doctor (Charlie Barnett, RUSSIAN DOLL).

Written by Noam Ash, who also plays Nate, BOOKENDS unfolds with a funny, realistic touch, but doesn’t shy away from real world hurdles, including the fragility of family bonds, the unsettling darkness of dementia, and the distress of being alone. With its amusing energy, colorful characters, and unique setting, BOOKENDS digs beneath the surface to ask big questions about identity and belonging.

— Brendan Peterson