A recent screening of “Red Alert” at Paramount’s Melrose Avenue lot highlighted growing tensions within the company regarding its stance on Israel. The four-part series, which details the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, premiered on Paramount+ exactly two years after the tragic event.
Details of the Screening Event
Approximately 200 attendees gathered for the event, hosted by Paramount’s Chair and CEO David Ellison. He revealed his quick decision to support the series after a conversation with producer Lawrence Bender.
Ellison described his response as a swift “yes” to provide a platform for a project that seeks to honor the victims of the attack.
Significant Milestones
- Premiere Date: The series debuted on September 30, 2023.
- Initial Attack Statistics: The October 7 assault resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli fatalities and over 250 kidnappings.
Paramount’s Political Positioning
Since acquiring Paramount in an $8 billion deal finalized in August 2023, David Ellison has positioned the company to the right of the political center. This new direction aligns with his family’s strong support for Israel, particularly from his father, Larry Ellison.
David Ellison’s controversial approach has included a dismissal of a recent call from over 5,000 industry professionals advocating for a boycott of Israeli film institutions. This movement, known as the Film Workers for Palestine initiative, targeted Israeli cultural projects in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Response to Divisive Issues
In a statement, Paramount expressed its commitment to the power of storytelling for mutual understanding, opposing any notion of silence based on nationality. Critics, however, argue that the company’s actions could effectively censor artists supporting Palestinian narratives.
Internal Conflicts at Paramount
Following the launch of “Red Alert,” tensions surfaced within Paramount. A group of around 30 employees, known as Paramount Employees of Conscience, expressed discontent over the company’s lack of programming focusing on Palestinian experiences amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
They have sent multiple letters to management seeking dialogue but reported no responses. Concerns have escalated as employees brace for impending layoffs, with the company aiming to cut more than $2 billion in expenses.
Broader Industry Context
The situation reflects a deep divide in Hollywood over Israel and the Gaza conflict, with prominent figures like Ari Emanuel and Steven Spielberg speaking out against violence from all sides. This complex landscape continues to unfold as the industry’s relationship with global conflicts and social justice issues remains fraught.
As David Ellison leads Paramount’s response, the challenges of balancing creative storytelling and political sentiment are more pressing than ever. The future of how Hollywood approaches these narratives may hinge on upcoming dialogue and action within both corporate and creative realms.
