Episode 7: Divided Perspectives: Antisemitism, Trumpism, and the Jewish Vote

Episode Summary:

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Charlie Spickler, a seasoned filmmaker who has dedicated the last 30 years to creating impactful cinema. Charlie is best known for his recent documentary, “Trumpism & The American Jewish Community,” which explores the alarming rise of anti-Semitism and anti-Semitic incidents during the Trump administration. The film delves into the complexities of the Jewish community's political landscape, revealing that despite the culture of hate and intolerance, 30% of Jewish voters supported Trump.

Charlie’s journey in filmmaking began in 1997 with the award-winning short film “Whacked. " Since then, he has expanded his portfolio to include feature films, documentaries, pilot episodes, and music videos. In 2012, he founded Reel Brooklyn Films, a production company focused on capturing the vibrant stories of New York City.

Join us as we discuss the themes of “Trumpism & the American Jewish Community,” the nuances of Jewish identity in contemporary politics, and Charlie’s insights on the power of storytelling in creating change. Please tune in to hear what drives Charlie's passion for filmmaking that matters and how he strives to make a difference through his work. Adler and Associates Entertainment currently distributes the documentary, and it is available to stream on Amazon Prime and TubiTV.

Key Topics Discussed

Opening Monologue by Host Lisa Singer:  Lisa pays a heartfelt tribute to the legendary film critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert, celebrating their impact on movie criticism and the film industry.

Background Footage of the Unite The Right Rally: This segment features powerful video footage covering the events leading up to the 2017 rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. It includes vital interviews, captures the rally's atmosphere, and President Trump's controversial responses to the marchers and the ensuing violence.

The Power of Filmmaking: Charlie Spickler shares his insights on the importance of filmmaking as a medium for confronting complex and painful issues. He discusses what motivates him to create films that tackle complex subjects, highlighting the role of storytelling in fostering understanding and sparking dialogue.

Closing Thoughts by Host Lisa Singer: Lisa reflects on the key takeaways from the episode, emphasizing the themes of forgiveness and growth. She encourages listeners not to let their past define their future, promoting a message of hope and resilience.

Resources Mentioned:

Charlie’s Website: https://reelbrooklynfilms.net/

Charlie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reelbrooklynfilms/

Amazon Link to “Trumpism & The American Jewish Community”

https://www.amazon.com/Trumpism-American-Community-Charlie-Spickler/dp/B0B65278GL

TubiTV Link to “Trumpism & The American Jewish Community”

https://tubitv.com/movies/707819/trumpism-the-jewish-american-community