The Toronto International Film Festival has withdrawn its invitation for the documentary “The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue,” prompting accusations of censorship from its filmmakers.The Canadian film, directed by Barry Avrich, tells the story of retired Israeli military general Noam Tibon. Tibon rescued his family, including two granddaughters, after Hamas surrounded their home during the October 7, 2023 attacks. .EDITORIAL: Alberta’s expense cover-up.His mission also involved helping survivors of a nearby music festival massacre and wounded soldiers. His story was previously featured on 60 Minutes.A TIFF spokesperson stated the invitation was pulled because “general requirements for inclusion in the festival, and conditions that were requested when the film was initially invited, were not met.” .The spokesperson specifically cited incomplete legal clearance for all footage used. TIFF said the requirements aimed “to protect TIFF from legal implications and to allow TIFF to manage and mitigate anticipated and known risks around the screening of a film about highly sensitive subject matter, including potential threat of significant disruption.” The festival invoked its standard terms allowing it to disqualify any film it deems not in its “best interest.”.EDITORIAL: One rule for thee, another for indigenous Shakespeare.The filmmaking team expressed shock and sadness. “We are shocked and saddened that a venerable film festival has defied its mission and censored its own programming by refusing this film,” said the filmmakers. They emphasized their role as storytellers, not political activists, and said the film should stimulate debate. .“We remain defiant, we will release the film, and we invite audiences, broadcasters, and streamers to make up their own minds, once they have seen it,” they said.TIFF reportedly faced concerns about potential disruptive protests if the film screened during this year’s festival, running September 4-14. The festival encountered similar issues last year with the documentary “Russians at War,” which faced pressure from Ukrainian diplomats and activists calling it propaganda. .Judge reserves decision in legal challenge to Saskatchewan’s coal power extension plan.TIFF eventually screened it after the festival with heightened security.Filmmakers understood “The Road Between Us” would be announced in TIFF’s August 6 lineup. However, festival sources said it wasn't included because requirements remained unmet after its July 14 invitation. .TIFF had requested the title be changed from “Out of Nowhere: The Ultimate Rescue,” which the filmmakers did.Further disagreements arose. TIFF wanted specific identification of October 7 footage livestreamed by Hamas, already publicly seen, and confirmation of its legal clearance. .Air Canada begins flight cancellations ahead of weekend work stoppage.The festival stated it requested source identification and clearance proof, not editorial changes. Filmmakers provided an errors and omissions insurance letter naming TIFF and said they were asked for a legal reporting letter and added security. .TIFF confirms it planned extra security due to potential risks.On August 6, TIFF's lawyer requested proof of indemnification, the legal letter, and insurance, plus a third film screening for August 8 to verify changes. On August 11, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey asked the producers to withdraw the film..Mi’kmaw play proceeds in Halifax park as Nova Scotia bans hiking, fishing in forests.Bailey officially rescinded the invitation by email on Tuesday.The documentary is set for Canadian distribution by Cineplex.
