In a darkened studio space, a young American student, Maia Levy, assesses a selection of videos depicting life in the West Bank. A committed supporter of Israel, Levy’s initial response to the material—most of which has been disseminated by the Human Rights organisation B’Tselem—is one of scepticism, suspicion and, at times, anger. However, as the viewing progresses, alternative perspectives are revealed to her which, if accepted, would threaten her most deeply held beliefs. From a deceptively simple set-up, The Viewing Booth builds into a complex, highly-charged examination of how media is constructed and consumed in the digital age.

Screens with:

The Juicy Part [Audio]
Jess Shane | Canada | 5’

Once Upon a Screen: Explosive Paradox
Kevin B. Lee | USA, Germany | 2020  | 10’

Please be advised that a film in this programme contains scenes of violence which some viewers might find distressing.

Screening includes a Q&A with director Ra’anan Alexandrowicz, hosted by Joseph Fahim.

Read an essay about The Viewing Booth by Chris Boeckmann.

Available: Block 2 (Sat 12th Sept midday – Tue 15th Sept midnight BST)

Please note: this film is only available to view in the UK.

“Ra’anan Alexandrowicz is a director, screenwriter and editor. His latest film The Viewing Booth (2019) premiered in Berlinale 2020 and is currently being shown in prominent documentary festivals worldwide. Ra'anan is also known for The Law in These Parts (2011), which received the Grand Jury Award at the Sundance Film Festival, a Peabody award and numerous other prizes.”