Veteran Film Critic Avner Shavit Leaves Walla for Time Out

Dr. Avner Shavit, a veteran film critic for the Israeli news site Walla, has resigned after 16 and a half years and joined the competing publication Time Out. This marks the fifth departure from Walla's culture section in three months.

Shavit, who is based in the United States and lectures at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, will contribute film reviews, articles, and commentary on cinema and culture to Time Out. His unique perspective as an Israeli journalist embedded within the American academic and cultural scene is expected to be a significant asset. Wesleyan University is known for nurturing prominent American creators, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Thomas Kail, Mike White, and Matthew Weiner.

Shavit's initial contribution to Time Out was a review of Gal Gadot's latest film. Beyond critiquing the movie itself, Shavit analyzed the American reception of Gadot, considering both the rise of anti-Israel sentiment and public discourse influenced by the current climate, distinguishing it from legitimate critiques of her acting skills.

At Time Out, Shavit will work alongside Yael Shuv, the publication's long-standing film critic, who has been with the magazine since its inception and is considered one of Israel's most respected critics. Shuv will continue as the lead film critic, with Shavit's addition intended to expand the website's cinematic coverage, increase the volume of reviews and articles, and introduce a new voice to complement Shuv's work.

Amit Saloni, Time Out's editor, expressed his excitement about reuniting with Shavit, whom he has known for over 25 years. Saloni described Shavit as a world-renowned expert in cinema and culture, who will significantly enhance Time Out's offerings alongside the established critic Yael Shuv.