Hot Docs 2009

What is anti-Semitism today, two generations after the Holocaust? In his continuing exploration of modern Israeli life, director Yoav Shamir (Checkpoint) seeks out the most modern manifestations of the "oldest hatred," provoking startling revelations. Shamir follows Abraham Foxman, National Director of the Anti-Defamation League, as he brings world leaders the message that anti-Semitism thrives as a serious threat to Jews everywhere. We follow a group of Israeli students to Poland where they visit former ghettos and concentration camps. Others raise serious questions about the motives behind what has been called "the Israel Lobby." In distinguishing between anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism, the controversial academic Norman Finkelstein asserts that "the Nazi Holocaust has become the main ideological weapon for starting wars of aggression." Cogent, amiable, and penetrating in his approach, Shamir is navigating tricky waters here. Yet in constructing a fair context for debate and understanding, he always asks the right questions. Sean Farnel.