UKJFF: Documentary Gala: Shalom

Dir: Meital Zvieli

Runtime: 1h 20m · 2026 · Documentary

The film is about the current state of Israel, told from the perspective of the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo. As war breaks out, the zookeepers must decide the fate of their ancient and ailing white rhino, Shalom. The zoo staff are a diverse group of Israelis and Palestinians, and their discussions about the political situation take place within the peaceful island of the zoo. But is this a real utopia, or is it something manufactured for an audience? The film is accompanied by a short film, Fish, Chips and Faith, which tells the uplifting story of a Leeds restaurant bringing communities together by serving Kosher and Halal food under one roof.