Colleyville

Florida Premiere

On January 15, 2022, in Colleyville, Texas, Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker and three others were taken hostage during a typical Saturday morning at Congregation Beth Israel Synagogue, in a dramatic standoff that unfolded over 11 harrowing hours. The synagogue live-streamed its services via Facebook, and the streaming continued throughout the hostage situation, viewed by more than 4,000 people. The media around the world followed the breathtaking drama with more than 200 local, state, and federal law enforcement officials, including a SWAT team, at the scene, in addition to 70 FBI hostage negotiators and rescue operatives. Add to that phone recordings made that day—from congregants, the attacker, and the FBI—plus appearances by President Biden and then-Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, and the film plays like an episode of 24, with multiple real-time views from inside the premises as the hostage crisis unfolded. The result is nothing short of a high-octane thriller that ultimately serves to remind us that in our darkest moments, we bring light.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Dani Menkin (On the Map, Picture of His Life), this gripping real-life drama captures the resilience and courage of the hostages, featuring never-before-seen footage that offers a unique perspective on the international event that captivated the world.

This special premiere event will include the attendance of director Dani Menkin, who will introduce the film and participate in a Q&A after the screening.