Director Amos Gitai’s latest work, Why War, has sparked controversy due to its inclusion in the Venice Film Festival lineup. The film, which explores the bellicose nature of the human race, draws inspiration from correspondence between Albert Einstein and Sigmund Freud. Gitai’s vision for the film was not to focus solely on the Israel-Palestine conflict but rather to explore the broader implications of war. Despite facing calls for a boycott, Gitai remains firm in his belief that the key to peace lies in new leadership on both sides of the conflict.
Gitai emphasizes the need for a change in leadership, stating that the current governments of Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas must be removed for peace to have a chance. He criticizes the extremist, nationalist, right-wing, racist, ultra-religious government in Israel and the oppressive regime of Hamas in Gaza. Gitai highlights the lack of rights for women, Christians, and LGBTQ individuals under these leaderships, likening the situation to Iran’s predicament under Khomeini. He believes that only through a sweeping change in leadership can a new bridge be constructed towards lasting peace.
Despite the challenges, Gitai remains optimistic about the eventual resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict. He rejects the notion of being deterministic about history and believes that reconciliation is possible. Gitai acknowledges that the current situation is bleak, with both sides mired in violence and propaganda. He stresses the importance of moving beyond the cycle of violence and fostering dialogue to pave the way for a peaceful coexistence.
Gitai’s decision not to showcase imagery from the current conflict reflects his belief that media coverage perpetuates the cycle of violence. He criticizes Israeli and Arab networks for selectively depicting atrocities to incite further animosity. By reframing the narrative and creating an anti-war film devoid of graphic imagery, Gitai aims to shift the focus towards rebuilding the region. He advocates for new ways of approaching the conflict, emphasizing the need to move beyond the wounds and tragedies of the past.
Ultimately, Gitai’s work underscores the urgent need for new leadership in the Israel-Palestine conflict. By challenging the status quo and advocating for dialogue and reconciliation, he offers a ray of hope for a future free from violence and division. Gitai’s poignant exploration of the human cost of war serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of striving for peace in the face of adversity. Through his visionary approach, Gitai invites audiences to envision a different path forward, one built on empathy, understanding, and a commitment to lasting peace.
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