Talking Peace 2005
Distributed by Cinema Guild, 115 West 30th Street, Suite 800, New York, NY 10001; 212-685-6242
Produced by Mark Freeman
Directed by Mark Freeman
VHS, color, 30 min.
Sr. High - Adult
Middle Eastern Studies
Date Entered: 04/05/2006
Reviewed by Gerald Notaro, University Librarian, Nelson Poynter Memorial Library, University of South Florida, St. PetersburgTalking Peace opens with a short, simplistic introduction to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Dialogues ensue between Jews and Arabs who have settled in the United States. The "living room" dialogues are meant to overcome fear and bring more understanding for each position. One tells the story of the rabbi who ultimately declares there is truth in all sides. The participants are all volunteers, artists, rabbi, scientists, teachers, all educated. Their views are probably more thoughtful, yet less indicative of most in the Middle East. The film succeeds best when the older narrators relate their historical experiences in refugee camps and living in the young state of Israel. Arabs remember the attacks and bombing that the Israeli Army denies, and as adults regret the result of the Jerusalem suicide bombings. In turn, Israelis explain the difference between Jewish religious thought and Israeli political actions. Though produced with good intent and a testament to the power of dialogue, Talking Peace is an interesting, but not essential, purchase.