Introduction to the Controversy
Filmmaker Barry Avrich spoke at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) about his documentary, "The Street Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue," and revealed that Cameron Bailey, CEO of the festival, told him that withdrawing the film was a "mistake." The documentary is about the retired Israeli General Noam Tibon’s mission to rescue his family members during the October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attacks.
The Initial Withdrawal
The film was initially withdrawn from TIFF due to concerns regarding the rights to footage from Hamas’ body cameras. Avrich stated that after a "painful" back-and-forth with the festival, where he clarified that his team was busy researching the material, Bailey acknowledged the mistake. Avrich mentioned that his team uses well-trained visual researchers who are knowledgeable about licensing material, and they believed that the use of the footage was allowable.
Reaction to the Withdrawal
When the film was withdrawn in early August, 1,000 entertainment figures signed a petition condemning the move. Bailey later stated that the censorship claims were "clearly wrong" and that the film would be reinstated. The documentary is set to be released on September 10, without further public or industry screenings.
The Filmmaker’s Perspective
Avrich expressed that the situation was one of the strangest consequences of his career. He claimed that the festival knew about the potential issue with the footage and that the argument about the filmmakers not having a legal release seemed unusual. Avrich assured the festival that they had the necessary insurance policies in place and that if someone were to sue, it would become his responsibility.
Future Plans
Avrich also announced that a narrative feature version of the story is in the works. He spoke about the origins of his documentary, which began when he cold-called General Tibon after hearing about his journey to save his family members in the Nahale Oz Kibbutz. Avrich agreed to publish his documentary before the script feature, and a script has since been approved. The details of the director and talent involved have not been disclosed.
Distribution and Representation
Cineplex Pictures is distributing "The Street Between Us" in Canada, and Independent Artist Group represents the US sales. The documentary’s release has sparked significant interest and controversy, with many awaiting its premiere on September 10.
