Documentary on Netanyahu’s Corruption Probe Premieres in Toronto
A controversial documentary titled The Bibi Files, featuring leaked footage from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s police interrogations, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in Canada on Monday, despite efforts to block its release. The film, directed by Alexis Bloom and produced by Alex Gibney, reveals never-before-seen video clips from Netanyahu’s 2016-2018 corruption investigations, along with interviews with key figures involved in the ongoing legal proceedings against the prime minister.
Netanyahu, who has denied all charges of fraud, breach of trust, and bribery, sought an injunction in the Jerusalem District Court to prevent the film’s screening. The complaint stated, “The fact that the publication is set to take place abroad makes no difference in this matter,” although it remains uncertain how an Israeli court could prevent a screening outside the country. The prime minister’s legal team argued that the footage’s publication violated Israeli privacy laws. However, Judge Oded Shaham rejected the request.
The film provides an intimate glimpse into Netanyahu’s interactions with investigators, including moments where he appears dismissive or combative, often responding with “I don’t know” or “I don’t remember.” In one exchange, when questioned about gifts of champagne from billionaire Arnon Milchan, Netanyahu deflects, saying he doesn’t count bottles, only the warheads of Israel’s enemies.
While the film’s content largely reiterates previously reported details, its visual format offers a deeper understanding of Netanyahu’s demeanor under interrogation. His wife Sara and son Yair also feature in the documentary, with Yair accusing investigators of conspiring with the “extreme left” to remove his father from power, and Sara threatening to leave the interview room unless treated more respectfully.
The documentary faced additional scrutiny due to the sensitive nature of the leaked material. The footage, reportedly leaked to Gibney last year, consisted of thousands of hours of interviews with Netanyahu and his associates. Israeli law prevents the film from being officially screened in Israel, but the filmmakers hope it will find its way to Israeli audiences through other channels. Despite legal restrictions, the film has sparked significant interest within Israel, with online groups seeking covert ways to view it.
At the film’s conclusion, anti-Netanyahu protesters gathered outside the Toronto theater, calling for action on the Gaza conflict and a deal to release hostages. The documentary’s release comes as Netanyahu continues to face legal challenges in Israel, with his trial resuming after delays caused by the October 7 Hamas attack and the subsequent war.
The filmmakers emphasized the urgency of releasing the documentary, citing the ongoing political situation and public interest in Netanyahu’s leadership during a time of crisis. “We felt it was important, and frankly, our duty as world citizens to make our story known as soon as possible,” Gibney said.
