Ben-Gurion, Epilogue

Winner of Israel’s Ophir Award for Best Documentary, Ben-Gurion, Epilogue is an invaluable historical document and cinematic treasure compiled from six hours of newly discovered conversations with Israel’s founding father, one of the most important statesmen of the 20th century. This fascinating documentary looks beyond “the iconic tufts of hair” to reveal a rare, intimate glimpse at what went on inside Ben-Gurion’s heart and mind. In never-before-seen footage, the then-82-year-old former prime minister in his final years after leaving office, is interviewed at his secluded desert home over the course of several days in 1968. In an introspective mood, Ben-Gurion reflects on the loss of his wife, his personal health and political legacy, and his hopes for Middle East peace. Languishing for decades, the reels of silent footage were inadvertently uncovered in the Steven Spielberg Jewish Film Archive in Jerusalem, with the corresponding soundtrack later found in the Ben-Gurion Archives in the Negev. The restored interview is interwoven with newsreels and other archival materials, including images of the unassuming elder statesman’s charmingly simple kibbutz life as he takes daily strolls and labors in the farmlands. Offering hindsight on the Zionist enterprise, Ben-Gurion, Epilogue is a work of undeniable historical significance with prophetic implications for Israel’s future.

Featuring the attendance of Alon Ben-Gurion, grandson of David Ben-Gurion, who will introduce the film and participate in an extended conversation with the audience afterward.