Documentary About Jerusalem Zoo's Famous Rhino 'Shalom' Premieres
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
A new documentary, "Shalom," about a famous rhinoceros at Jerusalem's Biblical Zoo and his caretakers, including the impact of the war, will premiere on Kan 11 on October 17th. Directed by Meital Tzvielli, the film won awards at the Docaviv Festival. The article also notes the return of Israeli Cinema Day with discounted tickets.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- A documentary about Jerusalem Zoo's famous rhino, Shalom, will premiere on Kan 11 on October 17.
- The film "Shalom" explores the rhino's life, his bond with Jewish and Palestinian caretakers, and the war's impact.
- "Shalom" won the Jury Award and Cinematography Award at the 2026 Docaviv Festival.
- The documentary highlights the complexities of animal care in captivity and the zoo's altered reality due to conflict.
- Israeli Cinema Day is also returning with discounted tickets for various local films.
A new documentary titled "Shalom" focuses on the life of a rhinoceros named Shalom, who has become a local legend at Jerusalem's Biblical Zoo. Directed by Meital Tzvielli, the film offers a behind-the-scenes look at the zoo, highlighting Shalom's close relationships with his caretakers and the impact of the ongoing war.
The documentary explores the daily routine of the large animal, who is entirely dependent on human care, and the bond he shares with his two caretakers, one Jewish and one Palestinian. It also delves into the complexities of zoo work, including the responsibility for the welfare of powerful animals and the ethical questions surrounding keeping animals in captivity away from their natural habitats.
The film incorporates the events of October 7th and the subsequent outbreak of war, examining how the security situation affects the daily lives of the zoo and its dependent animals. "Shalom" received the Jury Award and the Cinematography Award at the Docaviv Festival in 2026. The film is set to air on Saturday evening, October 17th, at 10:00 PM on Kan 11 and Kan BOX.
Separately, the article mentions that Israeli Cinema Day is returning on Wednesday, offering dozens of Israeli films, including "Good Boys 3" and "Kupa Rashit," for only 10 shekels per ticket, following a strong turnout in June.
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