How to Watch 'Israelism' Documentary Movie

The 2023 documentary Israelism, directed by Erin Axelman and Sam Eilertsen, delves into the often-unquestioned narrative surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as taught in American Jewish institutions. Through the perspectives of two young American Jews, the film sheds light on how they were raised with a particular view of Israel, only to later confront the complexities and moral ambiguities of the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Israelism is both a personal and political journey, exposing the gaps in the education many American Jews receive about this deeply contentious conflict, while also serving as a critique of Israel's treatment of Palestinians.

The documentary doesn't shy away from addressing difficult questions, and it challenges audiences to reflect on the deep-rooted narratives they may have internalized. Since its release, the film has sparked debates and garnered attention for its bold stance, winning awards like the Brooklyn Film Festival Spirit Award and screening at major festivals, including the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival.

Plot Summary

Israelism centers on two key figures: Simone Zimmerman, co-founder of the activist group IfNotNow, and Eitan, a former Israeli Defense Force (IDF) soldier. Both were raised within the traditional framework of American Jewish education, which often portrays Israel as a beacon of democracy and safety for Jews around the world. As they learn more about the treatment of Palestinians, however, their views begin to shift dramatically. The film follows them as they grapple with the stark contrast between what they were taught and the realities they encounter, especially regarding Israel's military occupation and treatment of Palestinians.

The documentary features interviews with notable figures like Noam Chomsky, Cornel West, Jeremy Ben-Ami, and Sami Awad, offering academic and political insights into the conflict. The film underscores how, for many American Jews, the education they receive on Israel-Palestine often erases the Palestinian narrative. By documenting the personal transformations of Zimmerman and Eitan, Israelism highlights a growing movement within the American Jewish community that questions long-held beliefs about Israel.

A Controversial Reception

Israelism has generated controversy since its release, particularly due to its critical perspective on both Israel and the American Jewish institutions that shape the discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While it has been praised by some for opening up difficult but necessary conversations, it has also been labeled by detractors as biased or antisemitic. The film has faced protests and online campaigns calling for the cancellation of its screenings at universities and community venues.

In several instances, screenings were canceled only to be reinstated after backlash from academic and civil liberties organizations. Hunter College in New York, for instance, initially postponed a showing but was later pressured by students and faculty to reschedule it. The University of Pennsylvania also drew attention for initially preventing a Jewish student group from hosting a screening, although the event eventually went ahead with support from other campus groups. These incidents underscore the sensitivity of the film's subject matter and the larger debate it has ignited.

The Film's Impact

Despite the challenges, Israelism has been recognized for its thought-provoking and timely exploration of a difficult topic. The film has won several awards and accolades, including recognition at the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival. Critics from publications like The Guardian, Jacobin, and The Forward have noted the film’s importance in challenging established narratives, even as some have critiqued its perceived one-sidedness.

Ben Burgis from Jacobin praised the documentary for dismantling the idea that to care about Jewish people means unequivocally supporting the state of Israel. Conversely, David Suissa from The Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles critiqued Israelism as a "gross misrepresentation" of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, arguing that it withholds key information. This divide in reception mirrors the larger split within the American Jewish community on the issue.

Where to Watch Israelism

Israelism has had a limited release in theaters and has been shown at numerous film festivals across the United States. With ongoing screenings at select venues and universities, the documentary is also expected to be available on digital streaming platforms in the near future. Viewers interested in engaging with this challenging and informative film should stay tuned for wider release dates or check with local film festivals and community organizations.