Watch Rabin In His Own Words

Rabin In His Own Words is a compelling documentary film released in 2015 that delves deep into the life and political career of one of Israel's most prominent figures, Yitzhak Rabin. Directed by Erez Laufer, this thought-provoking documentary provides a comprehensive and intimate portrayal of the late Israeli Prime Minister, presenting his story through his own words as well as archival footage, photographs, and interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.

The film begins with Rabin's childhood in Jerusalem, offering a glimpse into his early life that laid the foundation for his political journey. Through personal letters, journal entries, and recorded conversations, we gain insight into the man behind the public figure, exploring his thoughts, emotions, and aspirations. Rabin's own narration, voice recordings from speeches, and interviews he conducted during his time in office provide a unique perspective on his experiences and decisions throughout his political career.

As the narrative unfolds, we witness Rabin's involvement in crucial moments in Israeli history. The film takes us through his significant military achievements, such as his command during the 1967 Six-Day War, which propelled him into the public eye. We also witness the aftermath of the Yom Kippur War in 1973, during which Rabin faced criticism and resignation due to the intelligence failures that preceded the conflict.

However, the heart of the documentary lies in Rabin's political efforts to achieve peace between Israel and Palestine. It examines his first prime ministership from 1974 to 1977, where he laid the groundwork for peace negotiations, as well as his second term in office from 1992 until his tragic assassination in 1995. The film delves into the complexities of the Oslo Accords and Rabin's controversial decision to shake hands with Yasser Arafat, marking a significant turning point in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Throughout the documentary, Rabin's reflections on the challenges he faced, the hopes he held, and the compromises he made are highlighted. We witness the personal toll that his political career took on him and those closest to him, as the weight of his decisions impacted not only the nation of Israel but also his family. The film provides a candid examination of Rabin's transformation from a fierce military leader to a determined advocate for peace, emphasizing his belief in a two-state solution as the key to stability in the region.

Rabin In His Own Words is not solely focused on Rabin as a political figure but also delves into his interpersonal relationships and personal struggles. The documentary explores Rabin's evolving connection with his wife Leah, his complex dynamic with his children, and the challenges he faced as a public figure trying to balance family and country. These personal elements add depth to the narrative, offering a humanizing and relatable perspective on a man who became an icon in Israeli history.

An essential aspect of the film is the meticulous selection of archival footage and interviews with influential figures who knew Rabin intimately. These include his family, political colleagues such as Shimon Peres and Ehud Barak, as well as individuals who held differing political views. By incorporating a wide range of perspectives, the documentary provides a more comprehensive examination of Rabin's character, allowing the audience to form their understanding of the man and his impact on the nation.

Rabin In His Own Words is an insightful and emotionally resonant documentary that allows the audience a glimpse into the mind and heart of Yitzhak Rabin. Through his own words and the words of those who knew him, the film explores the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the pursuit of peace and left an indelible mark on Israeli society.

Rabin In His Own Words is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.6 and a MetaScore of 69.