From the first 1932 Zombie film WHITE ZOMBIE to the iconic zombies in George Romero’s NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD, zombies never stopped fascinating moviegoers, as they reflected each generation’s subconscious fears and terrors. From the Civil Right Movement the 60’s, American consumerism in the 70’s, and the virus-infected zombies of the 90’s, we’ll see how the zombie films came a full circle, culminating in the post-modern mashups SHAUN OF THE DEAD and ZOMBIELAND.
Naomi, Assistant Director for Research & Publications at the USC Center on Public Diplomacy, provides an academic perspective on how film and culture can impact a country’s international image. She touches on Israeli films, both their positive and negative portrayal of Israeli society, and how they impact Israel’s image with different audiences. Naomi discusses what public diplomacy tools Israel can use to project a more positive global image and how film can be a key aspect in Israel’s nation branding efforts.
Noa, a prominent Israeli actress and producer, provides an insider’s perspective on the power of Israeli film and television as a vehicle for informing foreign audiences about Israeli society. She draws on her experience as both an Israeli actress and producer in Los Angeles and her experience of bringing “In Treatment” to the U.S. market. Noa touches on the filmmaker’s incentive for making a film and whether Israel’s image is taken into consideration.
Lior, Israel’s Cultural Attaché at the Israeli Consulate in Los Angeles, provides the Israeli government’s perspective on the power of Israeli film as a vehicle for informing foreign audiences about Israeli society. He discusses the Israeli government’s support for the Israeli film industry as well as the funded films that do not portray Israel in such a positive light. Lior touches on the topic of immigration issues in Israel as well as efforts to strengthen Israeli public diplomacy.
