The highly anticipated drama series, “One Day in October,” will premiere on October 7, 2024, marking the first anniversary of the devastating events that unfolded during the war.
This anthology series, available on Yes Drama, Yes VOD, and Sting+, features four episodes that delve into the harrowing experiences of individuals caught in the turmoil.
Each episode is based on real events, presenting a gripping portrayal of the tragedy and human resilience.
In the wake of the events that occurred on October 7, viewers have been exposed to a barrage of news clips and interviews detailing the horror of that day.
However, “One Day in October” aims to transform these fragmented narratives into a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing audiences to connect with the characters on a personal level.
Through this dramatization, the series endeavors to shift perspectives, inviting viewers to see the individuals involved as real people rather than mere statistics or interviewees.
A Visionary Behind the Series
Daniel Finkelman, a US-based producer known for his previous work on films like the Yiddish-language drama “Menashe,” has taken the helm as the creator of this series.
Partnering with director Oded Davidoff, who has worked on notable series such as “The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem,” Finkelman sought to tell stories that resonate deeply not only with Israelis but with global audiences as well.
Finkelman, who was born in Israel, expressed a profound emotional response to the events of October 7. “After Oct. 7, I realized that when you know what you are willing to die for, you know what you are ready to live for,” he said.
This revelation fueled his commitment to create a series that would transcend geographical boundaries, highlighting the human experience amid chaos and conflict.
Challenging Narratives
In discussing the motivation behind “One Day in October,” Finkelman emphasized the limitations of traditional news coverage in conveying the true gravity of the situation.
He remarked, “We’re being shown real footage on the news of people being abducted and no one gives a f***. So we thought, let’s tell the narrative the way people like to be entertained.”
Critics have raised concerns about the timing of the series, suggesting it may be too soon to dramatize such recent events.
However, Finkelman countered that a narrative had already emerged, framing Israel as the aggressor in the conflict without adequately addressing the complexities of the situation. “So I said we’re going ahead with this now, against all odds,” he asserted.
A Tapestry of Stories
Each episode of “One Day in October” presents a distinct perspective on the events of that fateful day, combining elements of suspense and emotional depth.
The storytelling approach allows viewers to engage with the characters in ways that traditional news reports do not.
The first episode, titled “Trust,” features Naomi Levov as Aya Korem, a cyclist from Kibbutz Be’eri. The episode follows her harrowing escape from the terrorists, during which she encounters Hisham (Wael Hamdun), a Muslim stranger.
Their relationship and the split-second decisions they must make form the emotional core of the narrative. Levov’s performance captures the complexity of Aya’s experience as she grapples with fear and uncertainty, striving to connect with her loved ones amid chaos.
The second episode, “Sunrise,” showcases the friendship between two best friends, Amit (Swell Ariel Or) and Gali (Noa Kedar), who find themselves hiding from terrorists in a portable toilet during the Supernova Music Festival.
The episode juxtaposes their contrasting states of mind—Amit’s determination to stay focused against Gali’s stoned haze—while highlighting the strength of their bond as they navigate fear and despair.
Ordinary Heroes
In the third episode, “Ambulance 54,” viewers follow Avi Jian (Yuval Semo), a paramedic and bakery worker from Jerusalem.
The episode chronicles his brave response to the chaos as he and his partner, Emmanuel (Avi Azulay), defy orders to enter the most dangerous areas and rescue victims.
This narrative emphasizes the heroism of ordinary individuals, showcasing how they stepped up to save lives amidst overwhelming adversity.
Yuval Semo’s portrayal of Avi Jian adds depth to the character, blending humor with a heartfelt commitment to helping others.
This performance is expected to resonate with audiences, potentially propelling Semo’s career to new heights.
A Glimpse into the Unknown
The fourth episode, titled “What Took Place,” has not yet been made available to the press but is set to air on October 27.
This episode centers on the Taasa family in Netiv Ha’assara, whose story became widely known after footage was included in a government-compiled “atrocity film.”
The episode explores the emotional aftermath of the attack, as family members confront their trauma and question their relationships in the wake of tragedy.
Finkelman noted the difficulty of selecting stories to tell, given the multitude of narratives stemming from that day. He has already begun planning a second season, aiming to broaden the scope of the series to include stories of antisemitism worldwide.
Collaborative Efforts
“One Day in October” is a collaborative effort involving producers such as Chaya Amor, Aviv Ben-Shlush, Lee Ben-Shlush Kuperman, and Fox Entertainment Studios head Fernando Szew, who played a crucial role in bringing the project to fruition.
Finkelman’s Sparks Go company also contributed to the production, underscoring the joint commitment to telling these vital stories.
Finkelman’s dedication to the series is evident, as he vividly recalls his emotions surrounding October 7.
“For all of us, there is before October 7 and after October 7… These stories are not political, but they’re human-interest stories. I hope they will change people’s mind-set,” he expressed.
Conclusion
As “One Day in October” prepares to debut, anticipation is palpable among viewers eager to witness the powerful storytelling that will unfold.
By humanizing the experiences of those affected by the events of October 7, the series seeks to foster empathy and understanding.
Finkelman’s commitment to presenting these narratives in a way that resonates with audiences is both commendable and necessary in a world often divided by conflict.
This groundbreaking series promises to be not only a poignant reminder of a tragic day but also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.