Altalena 1994
Directed by Ilana Tsur, *Altalena (1994)* plunges into one of Israel's most volatile historical moments with gripping documentary precision.
Director: Ilana Tsur
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Altalena (1994) about?
*Altalena (1994)* examines the 1948 crisis when a ship carrying Holocaust survivors and weapons arrived in Israel, threatening to ignite a civil war amid the country's infancy. The documentary explores how this pivotal moment tested the resolve of Israel's leaders and the fragile unity of its people.
Who directed Altalena?
The film was directed by Ilana Tsur, a filmmaker known for her work in historical documentaries.
Who stars in Altalena?
Cast details for *Altalena (1994)* are not publicly available.
Is Altalena (1994) worth watching?
*Altalena (1994)* is a compelling choice for viewers interested in Israeli history or political documentaries. While it's unrated, its tight runtime and historical significance make it a niche but valuable watch for those seeking deeper context on the nation's formative struggles.
How long is Altalena?
The film runs for 80 minutes.
About Altalena (1994) — The documentary that reveals a near-civil war in Israel
Directed by Ilana Tsur, *Altalena (1994)* plunges into one of Israel's most volatile historical moments with gripping documentary precision. The film revisits the 1948 crisis when a ship bearing the same name—loaded with 930 Holocaust survivors and a cache of weapons—threatened to tear apart the fragile unity of Israel's newly formed state. As Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion's fledgling government sought to consolidate power, the arrival of the *Altalena* exposed deep divisions within Jewish factions, sparking a tense standoff that nearly plunged the nation into civil war. Tsur's lens captures the raw intensity of this episode, blending archival footage with powerful interviews to illuminate the ideological clashes that defined early Israeli statehood.
The documentary crafts a mood of urgency and reflection, weaving together the personal and political stakes of those fateful days. With its focus on leadership, sacrifice, and the cost of unity, *Altalena (1994)* serves as both a historical record and a cautionary tale about the fragility of nations in their infancy. The film's restrained yet evocative storytelling makes it a compelling watch for history buffs and anyone interested in the foundational tensions of modern Israel.