Surviving Oct. 7: Why Watch it on TV Again?

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many wondered how art would address the crisis. Would it provide a distraction or delve into the shared reality of quarantine and fear? Now, as we approach the second anniversary of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack in Israel, a similar question arises. Is it too soon to revisit such a recent and still painful event through television shows?

On October 7, Paramount+ is releasing “Red Alert,” a four-episode series, and HBOMax is dropping “One Day in October,” a seven-episode series. Both shows are in Hebrew, focusing on the events of Oct. 7 through the eyes of real individuals, with stories reenacted for the screen. Actors in both series met with the actual people they portray, adding authenticity to their performances. Each show includes real footage from social media that was captured during the attack, adding to the realism of the storytelling.

While both shows share a common theme, there are differences in their approach. “One Day in October” offers more experimentation and allows its characters to have humanity and flaws, such as the portrayal of two girls hiding during the attack. On the other hand, “Red Alert” emphasizes heroism, particularly of parents who go to great lengths to protect their loved ones amidst the chaos.

Despite the recent nature of the event and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, both shows aim to capture the horror of that day while also highlighting the resilience and hope of the survivors. However, some may question the need to revisit such a tragic event so soon, especially considering the current political tensions surrounding Israel. While these shows may evoke strong emotions and reinforce existing beliefs, they also offer a message of hope and perseverance in the face of tragedy.

In the world of film and television, depicting real-life tragedies can be a delicate balance. While it is important to honor the victims and survivors, there is always a risk of exploitation or oversimplification. The goal of such storytelling is often to remind audiences of the past and ensure that similar tragedies are not repeated in the future.

As we approach the release of these new series, viewers may find themselves grappling with conflicting emotions. While the stories of survival and resilience may offer comfort and hope, the underlying trauma of the Oct. 7 attack is still fresh in our minds. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether revisiting this painful event through television serves as a necessary reminder or an unnecessary rehashing of tragedy.