Archive · 18 Sep 2025
Israeli Culture Minister Cuts Funding After Film Wins Award
A movie called 'The Sea' won big at the Israeli Oscars.
It's about a Palestinian boy.
After this, Israel's Culture Minister said he'd stop funding the awards.
He was unhappy because the movie showed the Palestinian side.
The minister thought the film was negative towards the Israeli soldiers.
The film is set to represent Israel at the Oscars.
The film also won awards for its actors.
This comes after discussions about the Gaza war at the Emmys.
The film 'The Sea' won Best Picture at the Ophir Awards.
The film centers around a Palestinian boy’s dream to visit the sea.
The Culture Minister plans to cut funding for the awards show.
The film also won four other awards, including best actor for 13-year-old Muhammad Ghazawi.
The ministry said the winning film ‘presents the Palestinian perspective and depicts IDF soldiers and the State of Israel in a negative way.’
- Who
- Israel's Culture Minister Miki Zohar, Israeli Academy of Film and Television, and filmmakers.
- What
- The Culture Minister announced withdrawal of funding for the Israeli Oscars.
- When
- After the 2025 Ophir Awards ceremony.
- Where
- Israel
- Why
- Due to the film 'The Sea' winning Best Picture, which depicts the Palestinian perspective.
Film Supporters/Filmmakers
Israeli Government
Film Representation
Film Supporters/Filmmakers
The film provides artistic freedom and expression. Peace and equality are not an illusion, but a possible choice here and now.
Israeli Government
The film presents the Palestinian perspective and depicts IDF soldiers and the State of Israel negatively.
Funding of the Arts
Film Supporters/Filmmakers
Filmmakers defend the freedom of expression. The film is about every child’s right to live in peace.
Israeli Government
The Culture Minister believes state funding should reflect national values.
- Film Title
- The Sea
- Film Director
- Shai Carmeli Pollak
- Main Actors
- Muhammad Ghazawi, Khalifa Natour
- Awards
- Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor at Israeli Oscars
- Culture Minister
- Miki Zohar
- Awards Ceremony
- Ophir Awards (Israeli Oscars)
