Filmmakers of ‘The Road Between Us’ Pledge to Rebuild Kibbutz

A new documentary titled The Road Between Us debuted in select theatres on October 3, 2025. This film recounts the harrowing experience of an Israeli couple on October 7, who undertook a perilous journey to rescue their children from Hamas terrorists attacking their home at Kibbutz Nachal Oz, located near the Gaza border. Following its premiere, filmmakers Barry Avrich and Mark Selby have pledged to donate a portion of the film’s proceeds to the kibbutz, which is currently in the process of being rebuilt after suffering significant losses.

The documentary initially faced challenges, including a controversial ban from the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) shortly before its intended premiere. This decision drew widespread criticism, casting the festival in the spotlight for accusations of censorship. After a swift public outcry, the film was reinstated, and ultimately won the TIFF People’s Choice Award for documentaries, despite only having a limited number of screenings.

Behind the Film’s Journey

Avrich, a seasoned director from Toronto, detailed the film’s emotional depth during an interview on The CJN’s North Star podcast. He explained that the film focuses on the story of Noam Tibon, a retired Israeli general, and his wife, Gali, as they navigated the chaos of that fateful day when their family was in danger. The film highlights not only their bravery but also the broader context of the attack, which marked one of the deadliest days in recent Israeli history.

The Tibon family’s ordeal was partially known prior to the film, thanks to appearances on platforms like 60 Minutes and a book authored by Tibon’s son. Nevertheless, the media attention surrounding the film’s TIFF saga significantly heightened its profile. Avrich noted that the unexpected ban raised awareness of the film within the community and beyond, serving as a rallying point for support.

Selby, the film’s producer, expressed optimism about the film’s potential success in theatres, with plans for a week-long run in approximately 20 locations across Canada and additional screenings in the United States. They aim to extend this limited engagement based on public demand.

Community Support and Future Plans

Avrich and Selby are committed to using part of the film’s box office revenue to aid the reconstruction of Kibbutz Nachal Oz, where residents faced tragic losses, including the deaths of 16 individuals and the kidnapping of eight others during the attack. Avrich emphasized the importance of supporting the community, stating, “This is a community that’s in need of life again.”

The filmmakers also addressed concerns regarding potential protests or disruptions during screenings. Avrich is confident that audiences can safely attend, as the cinemas have implemented security measures to ensure a secure environment. He remarked, “People are used to it. It’s not pleasant, but we hope our community sends a message by supporting this film.”

Despite the political climate surrounding the film’s release, Avrich maintains that their project is not inherently political but rather a testament to human resilience and familial love. This sentiment resonates especially in light of recent global events, which underscore the significance of such narratives.

The film is set to premiere in Israel on October 9 at the Haifa Film Festival, showcasing the continuing journey of the Tibon family and their community. As the filmmakers monitor the box office performance, they remain hopeful that the film will not only garner financial support for Kibbutz Nachal Oz but also foster broader conversations about courage and humanity in dire circumstances.