Avi Nesher's "Our Loves" Brings October 7 Stories to the Big Screen

Avi Nesher's 21st film, "Our Loves", draws inspiration from stories and events surrounding October 7, focusing on seven characters whose lives intertwine. Each believes October 6 was the worst day of their lives, until they awaken to the Black Saturday that changed everything.

The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and opened the Haifa Film Festival, where Nesher received a lifetime achievement award. Following the festive premiere, comedians Shlomi Koriat and "Eretz Nehederet" star Yaniv Biton discussed the emotional experience of working with the renowned director and tackling such sensitive themes.

"Our hearts are in the movie, and meeting the audience is deeply moving," Biton said. "We saw how people get emotional and leave in tears."

Working with Avi Nesher is a standard of quality, noted Koriat, describing him as a director of process who gives extraordinary respect to actors, encouraging improvisation and making them full partners in creation.

Biton expressed excitement about taking comedic actors into dramatic territory, noting how moving it is to see a funny person exposed and authentic. When asked about the challenge of the subject matter, Biton admitted approaching it with deep hesitation and reverence, while Koriat shared how Nesher framed it as a story of love before the tragedy, which ultimately convinced him to take part.

The film has also resonated internationally. Nesher noted that even in Toronto, audiences who might not typically be sympathetic to Israel stood up in wild applause, proving the film's deep emotional impact.

The cast also features powerful chemistry between Maggie Azarzar and Hadas Yaron, who portray a couple navigating pivotal romantic crossroads. Azarzar noted the immediate connection during auditions, highlighting the comfort and ease of working together on screen.

Young actors Amir Banai and Elad Turgeman portray soldiers swept into the events of October 7, embarking on a harrowing mission to rescue the character played by Noa Cohen. Turgeman described filming just a kilometer from the Gaza border amid real explosions as an unforgettable, chilling mission of absolute dedication.