Actress Yuval Raz Connects Personal Trauma to New Film Role

Actress Yuval Raz, who previously revealed she was sexually assaulted by her dance instructor, is taking on her first leading role in the short film "The Day After." The film, which premieres Tuesday at the Haifa International Film Festival, explores themes of boundaries, intimacy, and seeking help through the story of a 16-year-old girl searching for emergency contraception.

Raz shared in an interview that she connected deeply with her character's desire for love and belonging, as well as her struggles with shame and confusion. This resonates with Raz's own experience at age 13, when she was assaulted by her dance teacher, Kiril Cheikin Shachaf. After years of silence, she reported the assault to her family, eventually revealing her identity publicly. Her abuser was convicted and sentenced to prison.

While the film is not directly based on Raz's or the director Shahar Katsenstein's experiences with sexual assault, Raz found parallels to her younger self and the need for someone to recognize distress. She recalled her fears before going public, including concerns about police reactions and potential blame. However, Raz stated her experience with law enforcement and the court system was surprisingly positive, contrary to her fears. She credited previous survivors for paving the way for her to bravely confront her trauma.

"The Day After," written and directed by Shahar Katsenstein, runs 21 minutes and will be screened as part of the "Compassion" program at the festival. The cast also includes Galit Giat, Daniel Stiopin, and Philip Shaulov.