Over 1,200 prominent figures in the entertainment industry have signed an open letter condemning the boycott of Israeli films, a campaign initiated by Film Workers for Palestine. This powerful counter-statement, spearheaded by organizations Creative Community for Peace and The Brigade, features prominent actors such as Liev Schreiber, Debra Messing, Mayim Bialik, and Jennifer Jason Leigh. The letter argues that the boycott, which has garnered support from approximately 5,000 individuals, is not an act of conscience but a misguided attempt at censorship that stifles artistic expression and promotes misinformation.
The letter directly challenges the assertion that Israeli film institutions are complicit in human rights abuses. Instead, it highlights the vibrant and often critical nature of the Israeli film industry, emphasizing that many Israeli filmmakers are vocal critics of their government's policies, often facing penalties for their outspokenness. The letter cites the recent Israeli Academy Award winner, *The Sea*, a film about a Palestinian boy, as an example of this critical discourse, noting that its success led to threats of defunding from the Israeli government. The signatories argue that boycotting these artists based solely on their nationality constitutes blatant discrimination and undermines the very essence of storytelling.
Debra Messing's statement underscores this sentiment: 'When artists boycott fellow artists based solely on their country of origin, it is blatant discrimination and a betrayal of our role as storytellers.' The letter further criticizes the boycott's vague accusations of 'complicity,' questioning who would determine which filmmakers are deemed 'guilty' and warning against the dangers of such arbitrary censorship. The signatories draw parallels to historical instances of censorship, such as those employed by Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, highlighting the potential for such actions to spiral into wider oppression.
The letter concludes with a powerful call for peace, urging support for filmmakers fostering dialogue between communities and condemning Hamas's actions. Instead of boycotts, the signatories propose a focus on the release of hostages and a commitment to fostering understanding through artistic expression. This strong counter-argument to the boycott underscores the complex interplay between art, politics, and international conflict, advocating for open dialogue and a rejection of simplistic, discriminatory approaches to peacemaking.
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Originally published at: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/sep/25/liev-schreiber-and-debra-messing-among-names-rejecting-pledge-to-boycott-israeli-films
