NEW YORK — Acclaimed documentarian Alex Gibney, known for addressing intricate themes over his extensive career, found himself unexpectedly drawn to a project related to Israel. This shift occurred last year when he received a remarkable leak that proved to be a significant trove of material.
The leak consisted of more than 1,000 hours of video recordings from police interviews involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with his family and various associates. The footage was part of a widespread corruption investigation against Netanyahu. Despite not speaking Hebrew, Gibney recognized the potential impact of this content. He sought the expertise of Israeli investigative journalist Raviv Drucker, who meticulously analyzed the footage and underscored its explosive nature. Gibney then brought onboard collaborator Alexis Bloom, who had experience working in Israel, to take the reins as director.
The finished product is titled “The Bibi Files,” a compelling documentary released for streaming this week, coinciding with Netanyahu’s appearance in court for the ongoing corruption trial. While the timing of the film is opportune, the filmmakers encountered substantial hurdles in the process. They faced challenges in securing funding without revealing the sensitive material’s details to potential investors, as the nature of the content demanded discretion. To add to their difficulties, the outbreak of war following the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, made many backers wary of becoming involved.
Moreover, the documentary is barred from being shown legally in Israel due to privacy laws surrounding legal reviews. Nonetheless, it is gaining traction among Israeli viewers who access it through VPNs or find pirated versions circulating on social media. “The film is being pirated like wildfire in Israel,” comments Bloom. The film’s release comes as Netanyahu stands trial, facing numerous charges including fraud, breach of trust, and bribery linked to lavish gifts he allegedly accepted, such as expensive cigars and champagne from wealthy benefactors, in return for favors that benefited their interests.
The leaked footage captures Netanyahu, now 75, sitting in a humble office space, confrontationally expressing his outrage over the investigations and dismissively calling witnesses liars. When questioned about the imported luxury items, he shifts the focus to regional threats, claiming he is preoccupied with issues of national security rather than personal scandals. Each time faced with potentially incriminating queries, he claims he cannot recall the events in question.
In essence, “The Bibi Files” has garnered mostly favorable reviews among Israeli media, albeit with critiques regarding its portrayal of Netanyahu. Unsurprisingly, the public response resonates with decades-long divisions surrounding the controversial figure. Supporters defend him against allegations of corruption, attributing them to a coordinated campaign by the media and judicial system aimed at undermining his leadership.
Critics, however, view the documentary as supportive evidence of ethical violations. An opinion piece from a pro-Netanyahu publication suggests that while the film may reinforce the accusations against him, it will solidify his supporters’ resolve. The prime minister has responded to the film explicitly, with his lawyer urging an investigation into Drucker based on claims of attempting to sway legal proceedings, though no such investigation has materialized.
The film intersperses police footage with insights from former officials, journalists, and analysts, including Drucker. The opening sequences showcase Netanyahu’s initial interrogation. Nimrod Novik, a former aide to late Prime Minister Shimon Peres, highlights a central theme: Netanyahu’s fear of prison could be dictating significant policy choices in Israel.
Throughout the documentary, Netanyahu maintains a posture of indignation, rejecting inquiries as absurd. In one revealing moment, Hollywood mogul Arnon Milchan shares anecdotes about fulfilling requests from Sara Netanyahu, reflecting a pattern of alleged favoritism and undue influence. Sara’s interview includes confrontational remarks against the interrogators, asserting that her husband is revered abroad.
The film also features commentary from wealthy individuals close to the Netanyahus, including Sheldon Adelson, who expresses discomfort at the reported costs associated with Netanyahu’s lifestyle. Yair Netanyahu, the couple’s son, voices his perspective, accusing law enforcement of misconduct in their investigations.
Director Bloom articulates that the documentary is structured not merely for leftist critics but aims to resonate with a centrist audience. She emphasizes that, while hardline supporters of Netanyahu may not change their views, moderate viewers might find it enlightening.
Following the outbreak of violence on October 7, the filmmakers paused to reassess their narrative but ultimately decided to maintain the focus on corruption, observing that the nature of the incidents related to Netanyahu was increasingly interlinked with broader issues of governance and societal stability.
Now streaming on Jolt.film, “The Bibi Files” attempts to draw connections between Netanyahu’s legal issues and state security, positing that his attempts to undermine the judiciary contributed to civil unrest that may have emboldened groups like Hamas to act. Ultimately, Bloom hopes viewers will recognize the importance of political criticism in Israel as a healthy aspect of democracy, asserting, “It’s completely acceptable to critique the prime minister of Israel, just as it is with any political leader.”