A Shift in Focus: Producer Gary Bender on October 7th and the Future of Jewish Storytelling
The events of October 7th have fundamentally reshaped perspectives for many, and for veteran producer Gary Bender, it sparked a profound re-evaluation of his work and a renewed commitment to amplifying Jewish voices in film and television. This isn’t a departure from a lifelong dedication to diversity, but rather a focused expansion of it, born from a deeply personal experience of isolation and a desire to support a vibrant, yet frequently enough overlooked, filmmaking community.
A lifetime of Inclusive Storytelling
Throughout his career, Bender has consistently championed diverse narratives. He grew up immersed in activism,participating in anti-Vietnam War protests with his parents in the 1960s. This foundation led to a career marked by collaboration with diverse talent and a commitment to representing underrepresented communities on screen.
He’s worked with three female showrunners and produced groundbreaking films like Jackie Brown, featuring a middle-aged Black woman as its lead.Furthermore,he tackled challenging and important subjects with Anatomy of a Hate Crime,a film exploring the tragic murder of Matthew Shepard.
The Turning Point: October 7th and a Call to Action
Though, the aftermath of October 7th presented a stark contrast to the support Bender typically received. He found himself waiting for calls of concern – inquiries about his well-being, his family, and his connections to Israel. These calls largely didn’t come.
This silence prompted a powerful realization: the need to prioritize stories reflecting his own heritage and experiences. It wasn’t a rejection of past work, but a conscious decision to add a new, vital dimension to his producing efforts.he felt a reopening of focus on his people and Jewish themes.
Supporting Israeli Filmmakers: A Community of Left-leaning Artists
Now, Bender is actively seeking projects centered on Jewish themes, while continuing to pursue other diverse stories. He’s been inspired by the incredible talent he encountered while filming in Israel.
The Israeli film industry, though relatively young compared to established European centers, is brimming with creativity and innovation. Bender is eager to support these filmmakers, especially in the face of misguided calls for boycotts from some in Hollywood.
Interestingly, he points out a crucial irony: many Israeli filmmakers share progressive, left-leaning political views. they are creating the very kinds of films that those protesting against them would likely agree with. This disconnect highlights the lack of understanding fueling the boycott movement.
Why This Support Matters
You might be wondering why this is so critically important.Bender emphasizes that supporting Israeli filmmakers isn’t simply about opposing boycotts. It’s about recognizing and nurturing a thriving artistic community that deserves recognition and support.
Here’s what makes this support crucial:
* Remarkable Talent: israel boasts a wealth of skilled and innovative filmmakers.
* Shared Values: Many Israeli filmmakers align with progressive values.
* Countering Misinformation: Supporting them challenges the narrative driving the boycott movement.
* Amplifying Diverse Voices: It enriches the global cinematic landscape with unique perspectives.
Ultimately, Bender’s shift in focus represents a powerful response to a moment of crisis. It’s a testament to the enduring importance of authentic storytelling and a commitment to supporting communities in need.He believes that by amplifying Jewish voices, he can contribute to a more nuanced and understanding world.
