‘Collapse’ Review: A Stark and Scathing Meditation on the War in Gaza, Told from the Israeli Side of the Border

Hollywood Reporter

by Jordan Mintzer

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The documentary *Collapse*, directed by Anat Even, offers a stark and deeply personal account of the war in Gaza following the October 7th massacre. Filmed from an Israeli perspective, the film captures the devastating aftermath of Hamas' attack and Israel's subsequent retaliation, focusing on the emotional toll on Even herself as she documents the chaos around her former kibbutz home in the Negev desert. The movie is a raw and unflinching meditation on loss, destruction, and the moral complexities of the conflict. Shot over two years, *Collapse* intertwines Even's intimate journey with broader historical footage and quotes from figures like Holocaust survivor Imre Kertész, reflecting a sense of collective indifference to the ongoing tragedy. The film also delves into the political landscape, showing Israeli settlers advocating for the "Judaization" of Palestinian territory and Prime Minister Netanyahu's visit to the war-torn area. Even's camera lingers on the surreal juxtapositions of life continuing amidst destruction—such as tourists visiting Gaza from afar or farm machinery harvesting crops amid smoke-filled skies. The documentary is less a traditional war film than a chronicle of mass destruction, capturing the stench of death in abandoned homes and miles of rubble on both sides. It serves as an indictment of what Even describes as "indifference," highlighting how daily life often proceeds despite the horrors of conflict. The film's haunting imagery and unapologetic critique make it a compelling yet grim viewing experience, offering little hope but much introspection. For readers interested in entertainment, *Collapse* stands out as a unique cinematic achievement—a deeply personal yet universally relevant exploration of war's human cost. Its powerful visuals and emotional depth make it essential viewing for anyone seeking to understand the ongoing conflict from an intimate Israeli perspective.

Verticals

entertainmentfilm

Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/14/2026