Israeli Producer Yaki Reisner Refuses to Fund Films Promoting Religious Departure or Return

Israeli businessman, entrepreneur, and film producer Yaki Reisner recently sparked discussion in the cultural and media sectors following remarks made during an interview on Riki Rotter's podcast "Exposed Foundations." Reisner outlined his firm stance against investing in Israeli films that promote a religious lifestyle change, specifically refusing to fund projects centered on narratives of individuals leaving or returning to religious observance.

When asked if he would invest in a film about a person leaving the ultra-Orthodox community (a "yotzeh beshe'elah"), Reisner responded decisively, stating he would not support such a film or any project encouraging a return to religious observance. He emphasized that his investments in films are often philanthropic, given the financial risks involved, and he would not contribute to causes that promote religious lifestyle shifts.

Reisner further explained his perspective on storytelling in cinema, noting that successful films usually carry a message and that no filmmaker simply tells a neutral story. He described his artistic approach as portraying the ultra-Orthodox community with honesty, showing both its successes and failures, aiming to hold up a mirror to society.

Additionally, Reisner shared his philanthropic activities, highlighting his support for organizations aiding at-risk young women who have been expelled from their homes, regardless of their religious or spiritual paths. He clarified that he ensures these organizations do not promote religious return journeys. Reisner reiterated his refusal to donate to any group with an agenda promoting religious departure or return, underscoring his clear boundary on this issue.

Reisner's comments come as he embarks on a new chapter in his career with Keshet 12, continuing his involvement in socially conscious projects while maintaining his principled investment criteria.