Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud TIFF in 12: The Road Between Us - a controversial film gets its world premiere
Sep 10, 2025
Radheyan Simonpillai and Teri Hart dive into the intense atmosphere surrounding the premiere of a controversial film. They discuss a charged Q&A session that ignited heated debates about ethical reporting and audience reactions. The conversation then shifts to a critical examination of the film's portrayal of sensitive topics, particularly regarding the events of October 7th. As they debate the influence of external pressures on film selection, they also highlight a gripping survival story from the documentary that recounts a harrowing rescue during a brutal attack.
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Small But Loud Protests At Premiere
- Teri Hart describes the protest turnout outside Roy Thomson Hall as smaller than expected but vocally divided.
- She estimated about 75 to 100 protesters and noted heavy security with metal detectors and pat-downs.
Film Chooses Narrow Family Focus
- The Road Between Us focuses tightly on one family's October 7 experience at Nahal Oz and avoids broader political context.
- The film largely excludes the wider aftermath and contemporary politics, centering personal heroism instead.
Unusual Q&A Led By Journalist
- Rad notes TIFF substituted a programmer-led Q&A with journalist Lisa LaFlamme for this screening.
- He emphasized this was unusual compared with typical TIFF practice where programmers usually lead Q&As.