Israeli Director Nitzan Giladi Dies at 56 After Cancer Battle

Nitzan Giladi, an acclaimed Israeli director known for films such as "Paper Wedding" and "In the Name of Satmar," passed away on Monday at the age of 56 following a battle with cancer. His funeral is scheduled for 6 p.m. today at the Rehovot cemetery. Giladi was widely recognized for his documentary work, including "As If There Is No Tomorrow" and "Jerusalem Proud to Present," which won several international awards.

Last year, Giladi publicly shared his struggle with cancer, describing the disease's impact on his life and body. In a recent interview with ynet, he revealed that he discovered the illness somewhat accidentally after experiencing symptoms during a film festival in Paris. He recounted how a missile strike near his apartment and subsequent post-traumatic stress led to health concerns that prompted an ultrasound revealing liver metastases.

Giladi began his artistic education at Telma Yelin High School's theater program and later studied acting at Circle in the Square in New York. He received a film arts grant from the Israeli Ministry of Education, Culture, and Sport in 2004. His filmmaking career started in the late 1990s with the documentary "The Last Enemy," which followed Palestinian and Israeli actors collaborating on a play. His documentary "In the Name of Satmar," exploring relations between the Satmar Hasidic community and Yemenite Jews, was nominated for the Ophir Award for Best Documentary.

Throughout his career, Giladi directed various documentaries and short films, including "Dark Deal in the South," "Promises," "Jerusalem Proud to Present," and "Time for Family." In 2015, he completed the feature film "Paper Wedding," which earned Ophir Awards for lead actress Moran Rosenblat and costume design by Keren Eyal Melamed. Giladi was also active in teaching and professional film organizations, including the Israeli Academy of Film and Television.

A screening of his latest film, "And You Shall Love," starring Michael Moshonov and Yael Elkana, was planned for academy members the day after his death. The film addresses the challenges of a young Haredi couple struggling with infertility and touches on the controversial topic of conversion therapy, reflecting Giladi's personal background and long-standing interest in the subject.