Horror struck a music festival near the Gaza border on October 7, 2023, after a Hamas-led terrorist attack took place following an all-night rave. The attack, which was foreshadowed by rockets mistaken for fireworks by some attendees, was captured in a new documentary titled “We Will Dance Again.” This documentary, produced by veteran news producer Susan Zirinsky, showcases the chilling events that unfolded during the attack in great detail.
The film documents the harrowing experience of gunmen targeting fleeing concertgoers, hostages being taken, and grenades being thrown into bunkers. Zirinsky, who previously worked on the acclaimed “9/11” film, considers this project one of the most significant in her career. The documentary is now available for streaming on Paramount+ and premiered on Showtime ahead of the attack’s one-year anniversary.
Despite the powerful storytelling in the film, its distribution has faced challenges due to its sensitive political nature. Many film festivals and outlets have been hesitant to engage with the content due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. While the film acknowledges the tragic human cost of the massacre and subsequent war, it aims to provide a historical account rather than a political statement.
Israeli director Yariv Mozer, a former soldier, played a crucial role in capturing the raw footage of the aftermath of the attack. Through survivor interviews and cellphone videos, Mozer paints an intimate picture of the events that unfolded that morning. The film’s graphic nature and unfiltered portrayal of the tragedy have made it a difficult watch for many viewers.
Despite the challenges in distribution, the filmmakers remain committed to sharing this important moment in history. While some buyers and festivals have rejected the film due to political concerns, the creators stand by their mission to document the truth of what transpired on that fateful day. The film’s impact on survivors like Eitan Halley, who grapples with survivor’s guilt and the need to preserve the memories of those lost, underscores the importance of sharing these stories.
As the documentary continues to navigate the complexities of distribution and reception, it serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in capturing moments of tragedy and resilience. “We Will Dance Again” stands as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the resilience of those who survive it.