Story perspectives

Salman Rushdie's Documentary Explores Stabbing and Authoritarianism

1/26/2026

45 8

Summary

Story summary

Salman Rushdie (writer) discussed his documentary Knife: The Attempted Murder of Salman Rushdie, directed by Alex Gibney, at the Sundance Film Festival.
The film chronicles Rushdie's 2022 stabbing and its implications for violence against writers.
Gibney highlights parallels between Rushdie's experience and current unrest, signaling the need for humanity amid authoritarianism.
The documentary contains raw footage of the attack, Rushdie's recovery, and the bravery of those who intervened.

History

Historical Context

The 1989 fatwa issued by Iran's Ayatollah Khomeini against Salman Rushdie, following the publication of "The Satanic Verses," ignited global protests and violence, resulting in over 30 deaths. This decree underscored a clash between freedom of expression and religious intolerance. Rushdie's 2022 stabbing reflects ongoing threats to writers, emphasizing the need to safeguard artistic voices amid rising authoritarianism and censorship.

1 of 2

Story summary

Salman Rushdie (writer) discussed his documentary Knife: The Attempted Murder of Salman Rushdie, directed by Alex Gibney, at the Sundance Film Festival.
The film chronicles Rushdie's 2022 stabbing and its implications for violence against writers.
Gibney highlights parallels between Rushdie's experience and current unrest, signaling the need for humanity amid authoritarianism.
The documentary contains raw footage of the attack, Rushdie's recovery, and the bravery of those who intervened.

1 / 2