New Israeli Docu-Series Explores Cultural Icons and National Identity

Kan, Israel's public broadcaster, has launched a new documentary series titled "Fathers and Mothers" for the Sukkot holiday, focusing on pivotal figures in Israeli culture. The series, which received approximately 40 million shekels in funding from the corporation's budget, aims to document contemporary Israel while also shaping the national archive for the future.

The series features three distinct films. The first, "Between Grass and Stone," by Shi Lahav and Ron Omer, delves into the life of the iconic Israeli songwriter Naomi Shemer. It utilizes personal diaries and letters to reveal Shemer's private life, including her struggles with mood swings, financial management, and her right-wing political views that allegedly led to her marginalization in the music industry. The film also addresses the controversy surrounding her song "Jerusalem of Gold," including Shemer's posthumous confession about potential subconscious influence from an ancient Basque folk song.

The second film, "It Was Like This," directed by Adi Arbel, focuses on the literary legacy of the acclaimed author Meir Shalev. This documentary explores Shalev's writing process, his research methods, his family background, and his experiences with criticism. The film features extensive interviews with Shalev himself, offering intimate insights into his life and work. It previously won the Audience Choice award at the Docaviv Festival in 2026.

The third film, "Lips," by Rubi Almaliach, chronicles the story of the band from Sderot that revitalized Moroccan music in Israel. While considered the weakest of the three, it touches upon the band's role in addressing ethnic discrimination. The film highlights the personal journey of its founder, Haim Uliel, who, after the band's dissolution, expressed a desire to speak as an individual rather than represent a cause.

Despite varying levels of success among the films, the series as a whole is praised for its engaging content, blending intimate human material with cultural significance. The "Fathers and Mothers" series is recommended viewing, offering a compelling look at the figures who have shaped Israeli identity, even for those who believe they already know them.