Educational Media Reviews Online

Amidst the sensational and polarized news headlines, Encounter Point shines a brilliant light on the grassroots movements in Palestine and Israel to promote nonviolent resolution to the years of bloody conflict, and the heroic efforts of individuals who are trying to lead the way to peace.

Encounter Point follows these courageous and remarkable everyday leaders, who among them include a former Israeli settler, a Palestinian ex-prisoner, a bereaved Israeli mother, and a Palestinian bereaved brother who was also wounded himself by Israelis.

At the center of the film is the Bereaved Families Forum, an organization which was founded to bring together and establish a peaceful dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians who have lost family members through the conflict. No one is told that they have to love or forgive those that killed their loved ones, but they come together to share their grief and work for peace so that others will not feel their sadness.

Leaders of two other groups are also shown in Encounter Point: Movement for Realistic Religious Zionism, a group working to encourage religious Israelis to support withdrawal from settlements; and Windows, a joint Palestinian/Israeli organization that brings together Israeli and Palestinian youth.

There is a great deal of interview footage as the film crew follows these individuals in their efforts to promote peace at meetings within the Bereaved Families Forum, and also in other venues. The determination of these individuals is extraordinary in the face of the deeply-held prejudices held on both sides, and they go to great lengths to spread their message – often putting themselves in danger.

Encounter Point is an excellent film that is well-done in every aspect, and is surprisingly uplifting due to the hope and courage exhibited by the individuals involved in these organizations striving for peace through nonviolence. This film is highly recommended for all general libraries. There are also extensive special features which includes over an hour of additional footage of interviews, extended scenes, and commentary. Subtitles are available in English, Arabic, Hebrew, French, and Portuguese.

Awards

• Docupolis Award for Best First Documentary
• Audience Award for Best Documentary at the San Francisco International Film Festival
• Audience Award for Best Documentary at the Rencontres Film Festival
• Grand Jury Prize for Best Documentary at the Sao Paulo Jewish Film Festival
• Award for Best Musical Score at the Bend Film Festival
• Spirit of Freedom Jury Prize at the Bahamas International Film Festival