Israeli TV Quickly Portrays Vulnerability After October 7th Attacks

Israeli television has rapidly produced fictional series based on the October 7th Hamas attacks, a stark contrast to the decades it took for significant fictional works about the Yom Kippur War or the years for Hollywood to address 9/11. The speed at which these narratives of profound pain have been brought to screen reflects a public need for understanding and a desire to regain control of the narrative, alongside the television industry's search for compelling, internationally marketable stories. Creators also felt a sense of mission, aiming to present the horrors of the event in a broadcastable format that could convey the reality to a global audience, serving as effective, albeit unconventional, Israeli public relations.

The swift dramatization has elicited mixed reactions. Some families of victims felt their grief was being commercialized or that boundaries were crossed. However, many others found solace in seeing their stories told, portraying them not just as victims but as heroes. In a context where state mechanisms faltered, these series offered a sense of agency and attempted to provide answers to a public desperate for them.

Historically, Israeli television heroes, seen in shows like "Tehran" and "Fauda," were depicted as strong, almost invincible figures, embodying a national fantasy of an all-knowing, powerful state. This portrayal, the article suggests, may have contributed to a sense of complacency within both the public and decision-makers. In contrast, series created in the wake of October 7th depict Israelis as more vulnerable than ever. Their heroism is redefined not by the ability to save everyone, but by the capacity to survive, protect, and endure. These narratives focus on ordinary individuals facing extreme terror, such as an elderly woman defending her home or a youth holding a door against attackers, showcasing a heroism born from fear and the will to persevere.

This shift broadens the spectrum of Israeli heroes on screen and may introduce a greater sense of security humility. However, the article cautions that a return to portraying invincible, superhero-like characters could signal a resurgence of overconfidence, which would be a cause for concern.