Independence Film Director Reflects on Ophir Awards Success and Oscar Bid
Filmmaker Moshe Rosenthal shared his feelings following his movie "Independence" winning ten Ophir Awards, including Best Feature Film. Rosenthal admitted he was still processing the wins, describing the experience as strange as the initial excitement plateaued after a certain point. He noted that the awards are shared with the large team involved in the film's creation.
"Independence," set in 1987, centers on a family in Holon whose son uncovers a secret about his father, portrayed by Asi Cohen, which gradually leads to the family's disintegration. Rosenthal clarified that the film is not autobiographical, though it draws on his childhood experiences and those of many others, using his upbringing and memories to tell a different story.
The film previously opened the Jerusalem Film Festival and competed at the Sundance Film Festival in the United States. Rosenthal described the experience at Sundance as complex, marked by euphoria over the official competition selection and audience reception, but also an early understanding that their main award was simply being there, which allowed them to enjoy the experience.
As Israel's official submission for the upcoming Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category, "Independence" will be screened for consideration, with a preliminary selection announced on December 15. The film is currently showing in Israeli cinemas. A key scene features the 1987 song "Chazak" by Ilana Avital, who has since developed a close relationship with the filmmakers and attends screenings with them.
Looking ahead, Rosenthal is developing his first television series but acknowledged that with the ongoing success and release of "Independence," his immediate focus will remain on promoting the film.
