All 29 Igal Naor Movies
Dive into the world of Israeli cinema with our exclusive roundup of Igal Naor’s movies. From critically acclaimed dramas to thought-provoking documentaries, get ready to explore the diverse and captivating work of this renowned filmmaker.
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1. Witness in the War Zone (1987)
“Witness in the War Zone” (1987) is a gripping action-drama that follows the story of an American journalist in search of the truth behind events surrounding the Lebanon war. With a runtime of 1h 40min, this R-rated film boasts a captivating plot, notable performances by Christopher Walken, Hywel Bennett, and Marita Marschall, and an award-winning script by Hanan Peled. Directed by Nathaniel Gutman, the movie dives into themes of intrigue, betrayal, and reluctant heroism. As the journalist delves deeper into a web of falsehoods, he uncovers shocking truths and heart-wrenching realities, including the murder of a child. The film delves into the complexities of Middle Eastern conflicts and the challenges journalists face in uncovering the truth amid political manipulation. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn region, “Witness in the War Zone” is a powerful and suspenseful tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It features intense action scenes, gripping suspense, and poignant emotional moments that will leave you reflecting on the fragility of life and the tenacity of the human spirit. The movie has been compared to other highly regarded films such as “McBain”, “The Dogs of War”, and “No Man’s Land”. With a 5.4 IMDb rating and a runtime of 1h 40min, this 1987 classic is a must-watch for action-drama fans seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally charged cinematic experience. “Witness in the War Zone” is an unforgettable film that delves into the dark world of war journalism, corruption, and the relentless pursuit of truth. As the protagonist uncovers hidden truths and faces life-altering challenges, viewers are taken on a gripping journey through a world of deceit, danger, and ultimately, redemption. Don’t miss this riveting tale of courage, betrayal, and the unyielding pursuit of justice.
2. The Mummy Lives (1993)
“The Mummy Lives” (1993) is a chilling horror tale where a long-dormant mummy awakens and sets his sights on a woman he believes to be the reincarnation of his true love. Directed by Gerry O’Hara, this thrilling film brings old-world terror to life as the mummy’s obsessive pursuit of his desired object unravels, leading to harrowing consequences.
3. The Seventh Coin (1993)
The Seventh Coin is an exhilarating adventure set in modern-day Jerusalem, where an unexpected encounter leads to the discovery of a priceless artifact from the age of King Herod. Entertaining and packed with suspense, this thrilling film follows the story of an innocent Palestinian boy and a charming American tourist who stumble upon the coin and find themselves in the midst of a deadly hunt led by the menacing Emil Saber.
4. Saint Clara (1996)
“Saint Clara, “ a captivating and evocative drama-fantasy film, was unveiled in 1996. Enshrouded in mystery and subliminal intrigue, it expertly intertwines the ordinary and the extraordinary, seamlessly blending elements of supernatural power, surrealism, and psychic telekinesis with the mundane world of a 13-year-old girl named Clara.
5. The Dybbuk of the Holy Apple Field (1997)
“The Dybbuk of the Holy Apple Field” is a captivating drama-romance film from 1997, which unfolds amidst the backdrop of mysticism and Jewish tradition. Directed by Yossi Somer, the film is based on a play by S. Ansky and co-written by Eyal Sher and Yossi Somer.
6. All I’ve Got (2002)
“All I’ve Got” (2002) is a heartwarming Israeli drama that explores life, love, and the choices we make. Featuring an IMDb rating of 7.0 based on 34.0 votes, this compelling film has won one award and is brought to life by a talented cast and crew.
7. Bonjour Monsieur Shlomi (2003)
Bonjour Monsieur Shlomi is a heartwarming Israeli drama-comedy that explores the unexpected discovery of a hidden genius. The film revolves around the new school principal and math teacher who stumble upon an underachieving 16-year-old’s remarkable capabilities. The boy, from a dysfunctional family, is too heavily relied upon to fix the family’s issues and therefore goes unnoticed.
8. Miss Entebbe (2003)
“Miss Entebbe” is a compelling Israeli drama released in 2003, directed by Omri Levi and written by Dana Shatz.
9. Munich (2005)
Munich is a gripping historical drama, directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg and based on true events. Set in the aftermath of the 1972 Munich Olympics atrocity, when the Israeli Olympic team was captured and subsequently killed by the notorious group, Black September, the film tells the story of five individuals chosen to exact revenge on those responsible for this tragic event. The film boasts an impressive cast, including Eric Bana, Daniel Craig, and Marie-Josée Croze, who bring depth and authenticity to their respective roles. Munich is a powerful exploration of the complex emotions surrounding terrorism, vengeance, and the unforeseen consequences of both. With exceptional writing by Tony Kushner, Eric Roth, and George Jonas, and striking visuals, Munich delivers an intense and thought-provoking experience for audiences, garnering five Oscar nominations and numerous other accolades. A compelling portrayal of a harrowing moment in history, Munich is not to be missed for fans of gripping storytelling and thought-provoking cinema.
10. Djihad! (2006)
“Djihad! “ is a powerful French drama that explores the interconnected lives of five characters caught in the midst of the ongoing war in Iraq. Set against the backdrop of Baghdad’s tumultuous events, the film showcases the choices and consequences faced by ordinary citizens, as well as the motivations of three young French Arabs who join a jihadi group with different intentions. Central to the plot is Marianne Denicourt’s character, a dedicated NGO worker whose abduction by the insurgents adds another layer to the story’s complexity.
11. Rendition (2007)
“Rendering” is a compelling political drama thriller that delves into the harrowing world of terrorism and human rights violations. When a tragic bombing in North Africa leaves 19 dead, including an American, the plot takes a twist as an Egyptian chemical engineer flying from South Africa to his wife in the USA is arrested upon arrival. Disappearing without a trace, his desperate wife turns to a senator for help. Little does she know that her husband’s nightmare is only the beginning as he falls victim to a system of interrogation, torture and power dynamics. The film stars the talents of Reese Witherspoon, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Peter Sarsgaard, under the deft direction of Gavin Hood. It is a gripping tale that tackles important themes of terrorism and human rights, making it a must-watch. In essence, “Rendering” is a powerful examination of the blurred lines between law and morality, and a nail-biting exploration of a world where fear and uncertainty rule. The story unfolds in the USA against the backdrop of an international power struggle as the fates of the engineer and his family hang in the balance. The suspenseful narrative is sure to captivate and keep viewers on the edge of their seats. It may not be a lighthearted watch, but it’s one that will no doubt provoke thought and conversation about the values we hold dear, and the lengths we are willing to go in the pursuit of safety and security. This film doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of modern global politics, and it will no doubt leave a profound impact. So, get ready for an intense ride full of suspense, heartache, and a stark reminder of the dark side that often lurks beneath the surface of our society. “Rendering” is a movie that is sure to make you think, feel, and question the world around you.
12. Language of the Enemy (2008)
“Language of the Enemy”, a thrilling dramatic feature, follows an American Jewish man named David on his turbulent journey after attending his father’s funeral in Jerusalem. The plot thickens when he meets a captivating Palestinian woman, whom he engages in an unexpected but deep conversation. Their meeting plunges David into a world of intense violence and intrigue, far from the peaceful environment he initially expected.
13. I Am Slave (2010)
“I Am Slave” is a gripping drama set in the heart of London’s dark underbelly, where human trafficking and the slave trade run rampant. The film follows the harrowing journey of a woman who is sold into sexual slavery, as she desperately fights for her freedom and survival.
14. Green Zone (2010)
“Green Zone” is a gripping action-thriller directed by Paul Greengrass, starring Matt Damon, Jason Isaacs, and Greg Kinnear. Released in 2010 with a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes, the film focuses on American soldiers in an unstable area, hunting for Weapons of Mass Destruction based on flawed intelligence. Amidst political intrigue and conspiracy, a U. S. Army officer goes rogue as he unravels the truth in this edge-of-your-seat tale. The film features captivating performances from its cast, and its themes of conspiracy, interrogation, and war provide a compelling backdrop for this dramatic, action-packed thriller. Don’t miss “Green Zone” for its intense pacing and suspenseful storytelling that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
15. The Infidel (2010)
“The Infidel” is a hilarious comedy-drama that centers around the life of Mahmud Nasir, a successful businessman and an East End Muslim. Despite his strong connection to his Muslim community, Mahmud soon discovers that he is adopted and, consequently, Jewish. Josh Appignanesi directs the film, while David Baddiel pens the screenplay. The talented cast includes Omid Djalili, Richard Schiff, and Archie Panjabi. The movie is produced by Slingshot Productions, Ombadsman, and The Salt Company International and released in the UK on 4th June 2010.
“The Infidel” garnered mixed reviews, maintaining an IMDb rating of 6.3 out of 10 based on 6,943 votes. The film’s box office collections reached $2,817,080. Despite its modest financial success, “The Infidel” stands amidst a similar group of works, offering some entertainment value for those who appreciate lighthearted comedy and drama. “The Infidel” presents an identity crisis unlike any other, blending the comedic aspect with the challenges Mahmud encounters when he discovers his true origin. The film promises a heartwarming, humorous take on exploring one’s roots, and finding oneself along the way.
16. Dead Europe (2012)
Dead Europe is a poignant drama film released in 2012, directed by Tony Krawitz and written by Louise Fox and Christos Tsiolkas. Set in Greece with scenes in other countries, the movie follows the journey of Isaac, a man who travels to scatter his father’s ashes. The story takes a dark turn when he hears of a family curse that led his father to flee years ago. As the film unfolds, it reveals the truth behind the curse, revealing layers of family secrets and hidden truths.
17. The Dove Flyer (2013)
The Dove Flyer, originally titled Farewell Baghdad, is a heart-wrenching drama that explores the struggles and resilience of the Iraqi Jewish community in the early 1950s. Based on true events, this film portrays the unprecedented mass exodus of close to 130,000 Jews from Iraq, marking the end of a centuries-old community.
18. 300: Rise of an Empire (2014)
“300: Rise of an Empire” is an action-packed drama and war film set in ancient Greece. With a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes, the movie stars Sullivan Stapleton, Eva Green, and Lena Headey. Directed by Noam Murro, the film was written by Zack Snyder, Kurt Johnstad, and Frank Miller. “300: Rise of an Empire” received mixed reviews with an IMDb rating of 6.2 and a budget of $110 million, which was recouped by the film’s worldwide gross of $337,580,051.
The plot of the film revolves around Themistocles, a Greek general from Athens who leads the charge against the invading Persian forces under the command of Xerxes, who has become a god, and Artemisia, a vengeful Persian naval commander. The film highlights the timeless struggle of good versus evil while introducing a seductive female character. “300: Rise of an Empire” has been compared to other action-packed films, including “300, “ “Troy, “ “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, “ “Dracula Untold, “ “Warcraft, “ “The Last Samurai, “ “Immortals, “ “Hercules, “ and “The 300 Spartans. “ It has also been discussed in relation to its portrayal of female nudity and some sequences involving removing clothes from someone, with a woman moaning from pleasure. Despite these elements, the movie offers a thrilling and visually stunning experience for its viewers.
19. Suicide (2014)
As the clock ticks late into the night, a young lawyer named Anna finds herself in a dire predicament. Saddled with crippling debt due to a loan from a dangerous loan-shark, she receives a chilling ultimatum: pay the debt in one day or watch her family suffer the brutal consequences.
20. The Promise (2016)
“The Promise” is a captivating drama set in the final days of the Ottoman Empire. The film follows a love triangle between Michael, a skilled medical student, the attractive and sophisticated Ana, and Chris, an esteemed American journalist residing in Paris. As they navigate the complexities of their intertwined relationships, they are caught in the midst of the harrowing events of the Armenian Genocide. With a talented ensemble cast led by Oscar Isaac, Charlotte Le Bon, and Christian Bale, this powerful period piece promises an unforgettable experience that transcends the boundaries of love and warfare.
21. The Women’s Balcony (2016)
“The Women’s Balcony” is a heartwarming and humorous drama set against the backdrop of a devout Orthodox Jewish community in Jerusalem. When a mishap occurs during a bar mitzvah celebration, it leads to a significant rift in the tight-knit community, testing their faith and traditions. Directed by Emil Ben-Shimon and written by Shlomit Nehama, the film explores themes of feminism, Jewish tradition, and the importance of balance within a community.
22. Damascus Cover (2017)
Damascus Cover is a thrilling mystery film released in 2018, starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Olivia Thirlby, and Jürgen Prochnow. The movie follows a skilled Mossad agent who embarks on a perilous undercover mission in Syria. As the agent navigates the dangerous landscape of love and survival, they must contend with the ever-present threat of betrayal.
23. Maktub (2017)
“Maktub” is a thrilling Israeli comedy-drama that has been hailed as the biggest blockbuster since 1986. Directed by Oded Raz, the film follows the unexpected journey of Steve and Chuma, two former criminals who become “flesh and blood angels, “ spreading good deeds and kindness among the people of Jerusalem. Their mission involves granting the wishes of individuals who write requests and place them between the sacred stones of the Wailing Wall.
24. Stratton (2017)
Stratton takes viewers on a pulse-pounding adventure, following a British Special Boat Service commando as he races against time to thwart an international terrorist cell. Director Simon West masterfully captures the action with his aerial camera shots, while the gripping narrative, crafted by writers Duncan Falconer and Warren Davis II, keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. With an all-star cast including Dominic Cooper and Gemma Chan, this thrilling film is a must-see for fans of action, adventure, and suspense.
25. The Unorthodox (2018)
In the movie “The Unorthodox, “ set in 1983, a weary Jerusalem printer named Yaakov Cohen decides to challenge the status quo by launching a Sephardic-orthodox list for the municipal elections. Driven by feelings of marginalization due to his last name and roots, he enlists the help of two unlikely allies. Together, they embark on a journey full of improvisation, humor, and drama, showcasing their determination to defy societal norms and make their mark in the political scene.
26. Legend of Destruction (2021)
“Legend of Destruction” is a gripping animated film that transports us back to ancient times, focusing on the tumultuous Jewish revolt against the mighty Roman Empire. The film unfolds the heart-wrenching events that culminated in the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD, an event that marked a turning point in Jewish history.
27. Oslo (2021)
“Delve into the captivating true-life drama of Oslo (2021), a compelling story that takes us through the covert negotiations in the creation of the essential 1990s Oslo Peace Accords between Israel and the Palestinian Liberation Organization. A riveting account of a pivotal moment in history, this film brings together a talented ensemble of actors including Ruth Wilson and Andrew Scott, all under the visionary direction of Bartlett Sher. With a gripping storyline rooted in reality and uncompromising suspense that will have you at the edge of your seat, this drama, history, and thriller hybrid is a must-watch. “.
28. Wendell & Wild (2022)
“Wendell & Wild, “ a 2022 animated adventure, follows the misadventures of two scheming demon brothers, Wendell and Wild, who call upon 13-year-old Kat Elliot to summon them to the Land of the Living. Directed by Henry Selick, the film is presented in a stop-motion style and features an original score by Danny Elfman.
29. Highway 65 (2023)
“Highway 65” is an intriguing drama that transports you to the small town of Afula, Israel, away from the bustling Tel Aviv city life. The story follows Daphna, a promising yet headstrong police officer, in her 40s, as she finds herself dealing with seemingly mundane petty crimes, seeking solace from the scorching heat, tending to her aggressive cat, and, most importantly, evading the relentless question of when she will finally get married and have children.
