“Red Alert,” a compelling four-part scripted series that chronicles Hamas’ 2023 assault on Israel, is set to debut on Paramount+ on October 7, coinciding with the second anniversary of the tragic event.
All four episodes of the series will be available on Paramount+ globally and also on Keshet 12 in Israel. The show is brought to life by acclaimed creator, writer, and director Lior Chefetz, known for works like “The Stronghold” and “Sky Raiders.” Produced by Keshet Media Group in collaboration with Oscar nominee Lawrence Bender, along with Green Productions and the Israel Entertainment Fund, “Red Alert” promises a gripping narrative.
The series aims to depict the harrowing real-world events of October 7, 2023, when over 1,200 individuals lost their lives and 250 were taken hostage near the Gaza border. According to a press release, “Drawing from the true experiences of those who survived, the series weaves their courageous personal stories into a cinematic narrative of the devastating terrorist attack that turned southern Israel into a war zone, testing humanity and forging heroism through chaos.”
“Red Alert” follows the intertwined lives of several civilians on that fateful day, including: “Bat Sheva (Rotem Sela), a mother fleeing with her two daughters while her son is taken to Gaza; Ohad (Miki Leon), a father who sacrifices everything to shield his family; Ayoub (Hisham Suleiman), a grieving father who, after losing his wife, is forced to hide with his infant behind enemy lines; Nofar (Chen Amsalem), a Border Police officer injured while protecting others, along with her colleague Liat (Rotem Abuhav); Kobi (Israel Atias), an anti-terrorism officer racing into danger to save his wife; and Tali (Sara Vino), a devoted mother who rises to heroism as she searches for her injured son, Itamar (Nevo Katan),” the release elaborates.
Paramount’s CEO and chairman, David Ellison, expressed his thoughts on the series, stating, “This project highlights Paramount’s ongoing dedication to storytelling that is both artistically compelling and accurate. With harrowing precision, this crucial series brings to life the horrific terrorism that shocked the world on October 7, while also showcasing true stories of heroism and heartbreak. We are grateful to Avi, Keshet, and Lawrence for entrusting us with this significant vision.”
The announcement of “Red Alert” follows a significant moment in the entertainment industry, as Paramount recently condemned a petition in which nearly 4,000 industry figures, including notable names like Emma Stone and Joaquin Phoenix, vowed not to collaborate with Israeli film institutions amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
“We reject the recent calls to boycott Israeli filmmakers. Silencing individual artists based on their nationality does not foster better understanding or contribute to peace,” stated Paramount’s Chief Communications Officer, Melissa Zukerman. “The global entertainment community should encourage artists to share their stories and ideas with audiences worldwide. We need to promote engagement and dialogue, not silence.”
Co-created with Ruth Efroni and co-written by Kineret Peled and Idan Hubel, “Red Alert” boasts a distinguished team of executive producers, including Maya Fischer, Shani Ettinger Sror, and Roi Kurland from Green Productions; Lawrence Bender and Kevin Kelly Brown from Bender Brown Productions; along with Keshet Media Group’s Avi Nir and representatives from the Israel Entertainment Fund. Financial backing comes from several partners, including the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation and the Film & Media Collaborative, which includes various multicultural funds.
Keshet International has been designated as the international distributor for “Red Alert,” with Rick Rosen at WME facilitating the distribution agreements.
