From the Liveblog of
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Culture minister continues campaign to recalibrate Israeli film industry
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleJessica Steinberg, The Times of Israel's culture and lifestyles editor, covers the Sabra scene from south to north and back to the center
The Culture and Sport Ministry launches a campaign saying it aims to strengthen and promote a new version of Israeli cinema.
In the campaign, called “Israeli Cinema, An Israeli Story,” a video released by the ministry starring actor Golan Azulay (“Shababnikim”) emphasizes so-called bourekas comic drama films popular in the 1960s and 1970s and other uncontroversial, nonpolitical films.
The campaign is part of Culture Minister Miki Zohar’s ongoing efforts to halt the perceived left-leaning slant of Israel’s film industry, including by slashing government funds and canceling awards ceremonies.
“Israeli cinema is an inseparable part of our identity,” says Zohar in a statement. “The reform I am leading in the film industry brings cinema back to the people and brings Israeli audiences back to theaters. The reform opens the door to new creators and refreshing work, and encourages Israeli films that succeed both artistically and with broad audiences. Cinema is returning to the people.”
The Times of Israel Community.