Cinema and Dialogue at the House of Lords: SERET UK Celebrates 15 Years

The 15th edition of the SERET Film Festival began yesterday with a landmark event at the House of Lords. Hosted by Lord Ian Austin, the evening marked a significant milestone for Israeli cinema in the UK, bringing together community leaders and advocates within one of the world’s most historic settings to discuss history, narrative, and the current social climate.

The evening featured a special screening of Image of Victory, the latest masterpiece from acclaimed director Avi Nesher. Set against the backdrop of the 1948 War of Independence, the film provided a poignant starting point for a deeper conversation about the power of storytelling. Following the screening, the audience engaged in a vital and timely panel discussion addressing the rise of antisemitism in the UK.

Expertly moderated by Nicole Lampert, the conversation featured insights from Odelia Haroush, Co-founder and CEO of SERET UK, Danny Cohen, President of Access Entertainment, and Daniela Grudsky Ekstein, Deputy to the Israeli Ambassador in the UK. The discussion underscored the essential role of the arts in fostering dialogue during challenging times. As we embark on our 15th year, we remain committed to using cinema as a bridge for understanding and look forward to our upcoming screenings across the country.

Co-founder Odelia Haroush: "Cinema has the unique ability to transcend boundaries and open hearts even in the most challenging times. By bringing these stories to the House of Lords, we are not just showcasing film; we are creating a necessary space for dialogue, understanding, and the courage to confront the complexities of our shared reality."