October 8

If you want to know what Jews have experienced since the horrors of Oct 7th, you must watch this film. This film is filled with activists who have fought tooth and nail since that terrible day to show the truth of the situation without dehumanizing Palestinians. I, for one, am thankful for this documentary to be out in the world.

For people who are afraid of seeing traumatizing footage from Oct 7th, please know that this film is not that. It focuses on the way the world has reacted after that terrible day. It organizes the facts in a concise, methodical way to make it easy to understand. Thank you to Noa Tishby, Debra Messing, Ritchie Torres, and the makers of this film.

I found the whole premise of the documentary boring and redundant and tedious and unconvincing. They certainly tried hard to get their version of occurrences and events across, but I have seen more persuasive productions with more compelling casting. I was hoping for something more substantial than what they were trying to imply. There certainly are a number of documentaries worth watching these days such as the recent Oscar winning documentary "No Other Land" or Louis Theroux "The Settlers" which properly deals with contemporary and historical issues that are of vital importance. These two documentaries certainly have a substantially high rating among viewers.

October 8 is presented with the gloss of a high-budget documentary, but beneath the cinematic polish lies a glaring lack of balance. The film leans heavily into one narrative, leaving out critical voices and perspectives that would've added much-needed context. Instead of confronting complexity, it simplifies - portraying events with emotional cues and select testimonies that feel more like a coordinated message than truth-seeking.

Documentaries should challenge power, not echo it. This one reads like a script approved in a boardroom. The omission of dissenting Jewish voices, Palestinian realities, and credible counter-narratives betrays the genre. It's less journalism, more performance.

A missed opportunity to explore truth - replaced with something disturbingly theatrical.

This documentary tackles the subject with the right level of journalistic curiosity, sensitivity and balance.

There will be many who don't want to acknowledge or will struggle to hold more than one narrative can exist. We need to exploring what occurred in the aftermath of Oct 7th. The fact that this film/documentary was made, and made so well, is a testament to its team who must have fought an uphill battle to get this out there. I implore people to watch it with an open mind, to be able to see what's happening right in front of them

Should be compulsory view - painful, insightful and necessary.

"October 8" is a powerful and essential documentary that explores the alarming rise of antisemitism in today's world. Through real stories and expert insights, it delivers a deeply moving and thought-provoking narrative.

What sets this film apart is its balanced storytelling. Rather than sensationalizing, it presents firsthand accounts that highlight the real impact of hatred and intolerance. The cinematography is striking, and the storytelling is both clear and compelling, making complex issues accessible.

More than just a documentary, October 8 is a call to action. In a time when bigotry continues to resurface globally, this film serves as a vital reminder of the dangers of complacency. It challenges viewers to reflect, learn, and take a stand.

If you watch one documentary this year, make it October 8. It will inform, inspire, and leave a lasting impact.