October 8

October 8 is presented with the gloss of a high-budget documentary, but beneath the cinematic polish lies a glaring lack of balance. The film leans heavily into one narrative, leaving out critical voices and perspectives that would've added much-needed context. Instead of confronting complexity, it simplifies - portraying events with emotional cues and select testimonies that feel more like a coordinated message than truth-seeking.

Documentaries should challenge power, not echo it. This one reads like a script approved in a boardroom. The omission of dissenting Jewish voices, Palestinian realities, and credible counter-narratives betrays the genre. It's less journalism, more performance.

A missed opportunity to explore truth - replaced with something disturbingly theatrical.

Educational and interesting. A must watch to learn about the post October 7th world. Many points of views were presented in an engaging way. I left the theatre moved and sad yet uplifted by the possibility of a better world. It is a movie you want to watch more than one time. It is well researched with credible sources. So many interesting people were interviewed. Well done. Well researched. Respectful of the sensitive nature of the content. I found the young students interviewed to be inspirational and beautiful souls. The movie left you with a desire to learn more and do our share to improve the world.

This documentary was powerful and so important in its efforts to share and balance the information circulating, the understanding of the history for those impacted and the terrifying length some are willing to go, especially without true understanding of how we have all arrived at this very moment in time.

No one people should be in danger on this planet in place of another. The humanitarianism for both sides comes through in this documentary. No more lives should be lost or lived in fear on either side of this unique historical and continuing battle. This film seeks only to balance to understanding, build compassion and does not in any way place more value on one life or people above another. It simply asks us to consider everyone.

It was painful and difficult to watch in some parts and yet I feel fortunate I was able to stand witness in any way to the atrocities.... For all.

The goal was clearly and truly to bring together and not create further divide, just further compassion, empathy and understanding of what has for so long felt like a hopeless pursuit of peace. If willing to watch with open hearts, this film has the potential to move us in the direction of unity, hope and peace....and above all, safety.

"October 8" is a powerful and essential documentary that explores the alarming rise of antisemitism in today's world. Through real stories and expert insights, it delivers a deeply moving and thought-provoking narrative.

What sets this film apart is its balanced storytelling. Rather than sensationalizing, it presents firsthand accounts that highlight the real impact of hatred and intolerance. The cinematography is striking, and the storytelling is both clear and compelling, making complex issues accessible.

More than just a documentary, October 8 is a call to action. In a time when bigotry continues to resurface globally, this film serves as a vital reminder of the dangers of complacency. It challenges viewers to reflect, learn, and take a stand.

If you watch one documentary this year, make it October 8. It will inform, inspire, and leave a lasting impact.

The narrative of the story is very one sided, having a very heavy impact of displaying a biased approach. I wish this film captured different angles of the story, but unfortunately I saw divert little no effort at all. I could have had a whole different experience. Hope you find this insightful as a viewer. It is also important to acknowledge that this film focuses on key points of events, without much acknowledgement. It's a unique perspective to be in the Middle East, and this could have been portrayed in a way better way. It really is a shame that it did not capture all it had at its disposal.