Netalie Braun’s powerful anti-war drama, “Oxygen,” emerged as the standout winner at the 42nd Jerusalem Film Festival, taking home the prestigious Best Israeli Feature Film award. The film tells the poignant story of a single mother, Anat, who embarks on a dangerous journey to prevent her son from returning to the frontlines in Lebanon. Dana Ivgy delivers a compelling performance as Anat, showcasing the emotional turmoil and resilience of a mother faced with the harsh realities of war.
In addition to its local success, “Oxygen” also received critical acclaim on the international stage, winning the Best International Film award at the festival. The film’s exploration of the human cost of conflict and the sacrifices made by individuals in the face of war struck a chord with audiences and critics alike.
“The Secret Agent,” another standout film at the festival, was recognized with multiple awards, further solidifying the event as a celebration of diverse and thought-provoking cinema. The festival kicked off with a special tribute to Gal Gadot, highlighting the talent and creativity present in the Israeli film industry.
The recognition of “Oxygen” and “The Secret Agent” at the Jerusalem Film Festival underscores the importance of storytelling in shedding light on complex social issues and human experiences. Through the lens of cinema, these films offer a platform for dialogue and reflection on the impact of war on individuals and communities.
Audiences and critics have praised the performances, direction, and storytelling in both films, acknowledging the depth and nuance with which they tackle challenging subject matter. The success of “Oxygen” and “The Secret Agent” serves as a testament to the power of cinema to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and inspire change.
As these films continue to garner attention and accolades, they contribute to a broader conversation about the role of art in addressing societal issues and promoting empathy and understanding. The cultural and entertainment value of these works lies in their ability to engage audiences on a deep emotional level and spark meaningful dialogue on important themes.
In a world marked by conflict and division, films like “Oxygen” and “The Secret Agent” offer a glimpse into the human experience, reminding us of the universal desire for peace, understanding, and compassion. Through their storytelling, these films invite viewers to reflect on the consequences of war and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
#JerusalemFilmFestival #IsraeliCinema #AntiWarFilm #NexSouk #AIForGood #EthicalAI
References:
– Deadline. (2025, July). Jerusalem Winners: Israeli Anti-War Film ‘Oxygen’ & ‘The Secret Agent’ Take Best Film Prizes. https://deadline.com/2025/07/jerusalem-2025-winners-oxygen-secret-agent-the-sea-1236468485/
– Variety. (2025). Jerusalem Film Festival Winners: Netalie Braun’s Israeli Anti-War Movie ‘Oxygen’ Takes Top Prize, ‘The Secret Agent’ Nabs Best International Film Award. https://variety.com/2025/film/global/jerusalem-festival-winners-netalie-braun-anti-war-oxygen-1236470226/
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