Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Culture Minister Miki Zohar have condemned filmmakers Rachel Szor and Yuval Abraham following their Venice Film Festival award for the film Naza, according to reports. The ministers’ reactions include threats of revoking citizenship and accusations of treason, while the directors’ work drew intense political backlash alongside a 25-minute standing ovation at the Lido.
Political Backlash Over Naza at the Venice Film Festival
Filmmakers Rachel Szor and Yuval Abraham earned a Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival for their film Naza, which initially drew a 25-minute standing ovation during its premiere at the Lido, according to reports. However, the international recognition sparked immediate condemnation from members of the Israeli government. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir posted statements on X directed at the two directors, calling them a shame and a dishonor to the people of Israel, according to reports.
According to reports, Ben Gvir stated on X regarding the filmmakers: “To those who defame our heroic fighters, who risk their life so that we can live in peace and security, I say: you are a shame and a dishonor to the entire people of Israel. Go away.” Ben Gvir also referred to the film as a direct collateral action against the public and suggested that the filmmakers’ enemies in Gaza would welcome them.
Threats of Citizenship Revocation and Film Funding Reform
Culture Minister Miki Zohar announced plans to revoke the citizenship of Rachel Szor and Yuval Abraham, according to reports. Zohar described the film as “vile” and asserted that it constitutes a betrayal of the state. According to reports, the culture minister connected this reaction to his broader legislative efforts regarding the local entertainment industry.
“It is precisely for this reason that I led the important cinema reform, so that Israeli citizens no longer have to pay out of their own pockets for the damage caused to the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces and to the State of Israel,” Zohar declared, according to reports, referencing changes to government financing for domestic film productions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the film Naza?
Rachel Szor and Yuval Abraham directed the film Naza, according to reports.
What award did Naza win in Venice?
The film received a Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival, according to reports.
What actions did Israeli ministers take against the directors?
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir criticized the directors on X, while Culture Minister Miki Zohar announced an intention to revoke their citizenship and labeled the film a betrayal, according to reports.
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