Lawrence Bender, executive producer of the upcoming series “Red Alert,” addresses the devastating impact of the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel. This violent event resulted in over 1,200 fatalities and left thousands traumatized. Bender emphasizes the importance of sharing personal stories to foster empathy and understanding during a time of grief and conflict.
Red Alert: A Storytelling Initiative
Created by Lior Chefetz and Ruth Efroni, “Red Alert” aims to document the harrowing experiences of individuals directly affected by the massacre. The show is set to premiere its first four episodes on Paramount+ on October 7, 2025, coinciding with the Jewish holiday of Sukkot.
David Ellison, the head of Paramount, supports the series, highlighting the company’s commitment to storytelling rather than political debates. At a recent screening, Ellison stated, “We at Paramount are here to tell stories. Period.”
Production Insights and Personal Reflections
Bender’s involvement in “Red Alert” reflects his long-standing dedication to addressing societal issues through film. He intends to shed light on the realities faced by the families of victims, ensuring their stories resonate beyond the political landscape.
- Initial Attack: 900 people were killed within hours, with over 1,200 total fatalities.
- Survivors: Thousands of survivors have urgent stories to tell.
- Premiere Date: October 7, 2025, at 9 PM PT and midnight ET.
- Funding: Supported by multiple production companies including Bender Brown Productions and Keshet Media Group.
Bender’s approach to filmmaking has evolved with “Red Alert.” He cites his interactions with survivors and families of the victims as profoundly transformative. Bender shared, “It was a life-changing experience for me to be where it actually happened, meeting those directly affected.”
Future Endeavors
The discussions surrounding the new U.S. peace proposals and the ongoing conflict in Gaza add urgency to the series. Bender acknowledges that regardless of political views, the focus should remain on human stories. He plans to invest more in projects centered on Jewish themes and Israeli filmmakers, advocating for their voices against widespread boycotts of the artistic community.
With “Red Alert,” Bender aims to create a narrative that prioritizes personal stories over politics, hoping to evoke emotional responses that can lead to deeper conversations about conflict and healing.
