The Controversy Surrounding Nadav Lapid's Film "Yes!"

In November 2023, Israeli director Nadav Lapid released his film "Yes!" in U.S. theaters, following its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. The film critiques Israeli society in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks, portraying it as a nation in a "moral abyss." The narrative centers on a frustrated musician who, rather than opposing a propaganda commission, chooses to collaborate with political and military elites, reflecting a broader critique of extreme nationalism and the trivialization of violence in Israel.

"Yes!", the controversial film by Israeli director Nadav Lapid that questions Israel after October 7thThe Jerusalem Post

A significant element of the film is its reference to a controversial video released by The Civil Front, an Israeli organization, which depicted children singing altered lyrics of Haim Gouri's poem "Hareut." The children sang about the Israeli military's mission to "eliminate the swastika bearers" in Gaza, a video that was quickly deleted due to public outrage over its perceived genocidal implications. This incident serves as a backdrop for Lapid's exploration of how propaganda is replacing meaningful discourse in Israeli society.

The Jerusalem Post

"Yes!" has elicited mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike. Some viewers resonate with its bold critique, while others argue that it presents an incomplete or excessive portrayal of Israeli society. Lapid acknowledges that his film may be difficult for many in the Jewish diaspora to accept, particularly those who have held onto a more utopian view of Israel. He has observed significant tension during screenings, especially among Jewish audiences in France, who struggle with the film's implications about the absence of liberal voices in Israel.

The Jerusalem Post

The film has faced condemnation from various quarters, including Israel's culture minister, Miki Zohar, and activists within the global film community. A petition circulated by the activist group Film Workers For Palestine called for a boycott of Israeli film institutions, citing their complicity in what they describe as genocide and apartheid against Palestinians. Lapid, however, did not sign the petition and expressed bemusement at its existence, arguing that boycotting cultural figures is a complex issue that should not be simplified.

The Jerusalem Post

Lapid's "Yes!" arrives at a time when support for Israel is being scrutinized amid ongoing conflicts, particularly the joint U.S.-Israel war against Iran. The film's extreme and symbolic scenes aim to provoke thought and discussion about the ethical direction of Israeli society. While it has garnered praise for its audacity, it also faces significant backlash for its portrayal of a nation grappling with its identity and moral compass in a deeply polarized environment.

The Jerusalem Post

• “If someone thinks that by signing this petition, or giving a speech at the Oscars, he paid his tribute to the Palestinian cause, or imagines himself Che Guevara?” — Nadav Lapid, Director

The Jerusalem Post

• “It was clear that it was very, very hard for them,” — Nadav Lapid, reflecting on audience reactions

The Jerusalem Post

• “You would never guess from this movie that hundreds of thousands come out every Saturday night to call for the release of the hostages and for a ceasefire, some holding pictures of children killed in Gaza.” — Jerusalem Post critic

The Jerusalem Post

• “Boycotting culture, cinema, yes or no, it’s a complicated question. But I think what one can say, with total confidence, is that it’s totally ridiculous if the only ones who will be boycotted will be, I don’t know, filmmakers and choreographers and dancers.” — Nadav Lapid, on cultural boycotts

The Jerusalem Post