A CBN Films Documentary | Produced in Israel by Sharon Schaveet
The Genius of Israel – Behind the Scenes
October 7th was the saddest day of my life.
We had spent six months preparing for a major feature film shoot in Israel. But on that early Saturday morning, everything changed. The production came to a sudden halt, and some of our crew members were called to serve in the army.
A month later, Erin Zimmerman, Director of CBN Films, reached out to me with a new vision. Together, we began filming a documentary: The Genius of Israel.
This was no longer just a production—it became a mission. We set out to document the remarkable resilience of the Israeli people during one of the most difficult periods in the country’s history. We filmed volunteers in action across the country and spoke with families of hostages. In the face of uncertainty, we witnessed extraordinary strength, unity, and generosity.
About the Film
Based on the New York Times bestselling book The Genius of Israel, this documentary explores what makes Israeli society so unique—and why it continues to rank among the happiest nations in the world.
The book suggests that “Israeli society provides more of what humans really need.” The film dives into the roots of that resilience and sense of belonging — showcasing youth movements, strong family structures, traditions like Shabbat, and the shared experience of military service.
Filming Locations
We filmed throughout Israel—in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Sderot, and beyond—capturing the spirit of a nation navigating grief and hope.
Credits
- Executive Producer: Gordon Robertson
- Producer (Israel): Sharon Schavee
- Director: Erin Zimmerman
- Producer (Israel): Sharon Schaveet
- Director of Photography: Haim Hasias
- Fixer: Nathalie Van der Aa
- Production services in Israel: Biblical productions
Watch the Interview
CBN Films Director Erin Zimmerman joins CBN News to discuss The Genius of Israel and what she discovered while exploring the cultural and communal traditions that help make Israel one of the most resilient democracies on heart
https://youtu.be/ZlSDgWYtIws?si=VciMzJkUqAiV-Dcr
To film web site
https://securegiving.cbn.com/genius-of-israel