Exploring Hollywood's influence on Israel's depiction and independence, the podcast discusses the relationship between Hollywood and Israel beyond movies. It delves into the promotion of Israel through films like 'The Juggler' and discusses the controversy surrounding Vanessa Redgrave's anti-Zionist views. The podcast also examines Spielberg's portrayal of Israel's actions in the film 'Munich' and the challenges of making politically charged films in Hollywood.
Hollywood's economic interests often dictate which films get made regarding Israel, highlighting the delicate balance between profit and ideology in the industry.
Controversies surrounding political beliefs related to Israel can significantly impact the perception and reception of movies in Hollywood.
Deep dives
Hollywood in Israel: Building a Relationship
The book 'Hollywood in Israel' by Tony Shaw and Guiara Goodman explores the connection between Hollywood and Israel. It goes beyond just analyzing the movies made about Israel and delves into the off-screen efforts of film stars, producers, and advocates to build a relationship between Hollywood and Israel. The authors highlight how the economic interests of Hollywood often dictate which films get made, and how movies like 'Exodus' and 'The Juggler' aligned both commercial and ideological interests, resonating with American audiences. It also discusses how Hollywood, despite not producing many films directly about Israel, has played a significant role in supporting Israel through various means, such as celebrity endorsements and generating income.
The Impact of Economic Factors on Film Production
Economic considerations greatly influence the types of films produced. The authors argue that Hollywood primarily exists to make profits, and films are often greenlit based on their profit potential rather than propaganda opportunities. The example of 'The Juggler' illustrates this, as it failed to make enough money at the box office, leading to a decade-long hiatus for films about Israel. This highlights the delicate balance between economic and ideological motivations in the film industry, where financial success ultimately drives decisions.
Vanessa Redgrave and the Controversy Surrounding Israel
The book discusses the controversy surrounding actress Vanessa Redgrave and her political beliefs related to Israel. Redgrave's involvement with the film 'Munich', which depicted Israeli actions and policies following the Munich massacre, triggered pushback and protests. The authors acknowledge Spielberg's doubts about Israeli policies portrayed in 'Munich' and how the film, despite being a plea for peace, received mixed reactions from Jewish Americans who perceived it as a betrayal. This example demonstrates the impact of political controversies on Hollywood and its relations with Israel.
In their new book Hollywood and Israel, film scholars Tony Shaw and Giora Goodman take us behind and beyond the screen to show how the world’s entertainment capital is an important player in international affairs and how profit always trumps propaganda.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode