Geneva Queer Film Festival Cancels Screenings of Israeli Movie
Geneva's Everybody's Perfect queer film festival cancelled screenings of the Israeli film 'One Life' following boycott threats from local groups.
The queer film festival Everybody's Perfect in Geneva has cancelled two scheduled screenings of the Israeli film 'One Life' by Moshe Rosenthal, following boycott threats from local groups, including a Palestinian film festival. According to a report by Variety, the film had already been announced as part of the lineup before being removed.
Pressure and Cancellation
Festival communications officer Charlotte Spector noted that local groups threatened a severe boycott. Facing mounting pressure just days before the event, the festival management asked Rosenthal to issue a public statement regarding his stance on the Israeli government and the ongoing conflict. Rosenthal and the film's production team responded that they do not represent the government and do not produce or fund films supporting its current policies.
A film does not represent a government, and creators should not bear responsibility for its policies. Many of us in Israel oppose the war and strongly criticize our government.
Despite this clarification, the artistic director Sylvie Cashin confirmed the removal was intended to avoid controversy and ensure the safety of the audience. The production team expressed deep regret over the festival's capitulation to pressure, emphasizing that art should foster connection rather than division.