ABOUT THE DOCUMENTARY
October 8 is a 2025 feature documentary directed by Wendy Sachs and distributed by Briarcliff Entertainment. The film examines the surge of antisemitism in the United States after the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023—particularly on college campuses, across social media, and in public life. It weaves first-person accounts with commentary from public figures and experts to explore how anti-Israel rhetoric can blur into antisemitism, and the role online platforms played in amplifying campus unrest. (Theatrical release: March 2025; approx. 100 minutes.)
The documentary features interviews and commentary from a diverse range of public figures and advocates, including Debra Messing (also an executive producer), Michael Rapaport, Sheryl Sandberg, Mosab Yousef, Noa Tishby, U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Deborah Lipstadt, Bari Weiss, Dan Senor, and others.
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Context & Clarity: Helps community members understand how the events of October 7, 2023, reverberated on U.S. campuses and online spaces beginning October 8.
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First-Person Student Testimony: Centers on real experiences from Jewish students navigating hostility and institutional responses.
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Broader Civic Lens: Invites conversation about free expression, safety, and combating hate—on campus and beyond.
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Schedule: Doors open at 12:30 pm; film begins promptly at 1:00 pm. Discussion will follow at approx. 2:45 pm.
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Admission: Free, open to the community with reservations - must contact the Temple office by October 1.
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Security: Professional security will be present. Bags may be subject to screening.
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Content Advisory: The film contains discussion of antisemitism, extremist rhetoric, and protest footage; parental discretion advised for younger viewers.
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Accessibility: Sanctuary seating is accessible.