Here’s a story that will grip your heart and challenge your perspective: A mother’s plea for her kidnapped daughter becomes a powerful call for empathy in the midst of one of the most divisive conflicts of our time. Holding Liat, the Oscar-shortlisted documentary that has already captivated audiences at the Berlin Film Festival, is now making its way to independent theaters across the U.S., just as Academy Award nomination voting begins. But here’s where it gets controversial: this isn’t just another film about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict—it’s a deeply personal account that dares to humanize both sides, even as it confronts the horrors of war and the complexities of political divides.
Directed by Brandon Kramer, the film follows the harrowing journey of Liat Beinin Atzili, an Israeli-American woman abducted during the Hamas terror attack on October 7, 2023, and taken to Gaza. Her parents, Yehuda and Chaya Beinin, launched a relentless campaign to secure her release, traveling to Washington D.C. to meet with Biden administration officials. But what sets this story apart is Yehuda’s unwavering stance: he refused to let his daughter’s kidnapping be used to dehumanize Palestinians. Instead, he spoke out against the mass killing of civilians in Gaza and criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the war. Is it possible to grieve for your own while still advocating for the humanity of others? This film says yes—and it’s a message that’s both radical and necessary.
Despite its critical acclaim, Holding Liat has faced an uphill battle in the U.S. market, where distributors have been hesitant to back politically sensitive material. Films like Coexistence, My Ass! and last year’s Oscar winner No Other Land have faced similar challenges, often resorting to self-distribution. Yet, Holding Liat has found success internationally, with distribution deals in the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Japan, and Israel. Why is the U.S. audience so reluctant to engage with these stories? And what does that say about our willingness to confront uncomfortable truths?
What makes Holding Liat truly unique is its ability to transcend polarization. As Brandon Kramer explains, the film has sparked dialogue and empathy among viewers, regardless of their political leanings. ‘When people actually watch the film, they cannot help but be moved by Liat’s message of empathy,’ Kramer told Deadline. ‘It opens up a conversation around this charged topic in a way that’s both personal and universal.’ And this is the part most people miss: the film isn’t just about Liat’s abduction—it’s about the choices we make in the face of unimaginable pain, and the power of humanity to bridge even the deepest divides.
The filmmakers have partnered with Impact Producer Albi, a groundbreaking initiative that uses cultural narratives to foster understanding between Palestinians and Jews. Through grassroots efforts, they’ve mobilized directly impacted families, including members of the Parents Circle Families Forum, to speak at screenings and share their stories of loss and hope. Can art truly change the way we see the world? Holding Liat is a testament to the possibility.
As the film opens at New York’s Film Forum before expanding to Los Angeles and beyond, it’s not just a cinematic event—it’s a call to action. Liat’s story, and her parents’ unwavering commitment to empathy, remind us that even in the darkest moments, humanity can prevail. But the question remains: Are we ready to listen? And if so, what will we do with what we hear? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation that needs to happen.
