The Leo Baeck Institute London would like to invite you to another free online screening from the LBI Film Club, starting on Thursday 17 April 2026. We hope all the film lovers among you will continue to enjoy our selection of thought-provoking films exploring the rich, diverse and multi-faceted Jewish experience. This latest offering is compelling historical account of Herzl’s life and vision which invites viewers to reflect on the complexities and legacies shaping Jewish life today.
Theodor Herzl: The Man Behind Israel
(Dom Howlett, James Dann, United Kingdom, 2025)
Step into the remarkable story of Theodor Herzl (1860-1904), the visionary journalist whose ideas helped shape the early foundations of modern political Zionism. Through thoughtful narration and vivid historical imagery, the film traces Herzl’s transformation from an assimilated Austrian writer into a determined advocate for a Jewish national movement. His journey unfolds against the complex social and political backdrop of late‑19th‑century Europe, offering viewers a compelling portrait of a man driven by both personal conviction and the shifting tides of his time.
Guided by the eloquent narration of David Baddiel, with Stephen Fry reading Herzl’s diary entries, the documentary brings to life Herzl’s world — from the bustling streets of Vienna to the halls of the First Zionist Congress. The narration highlights not only his triumphs but also the doubts and sacrifices that shaped his mission, creating a human portrait of a figure often viewed through a purely historical lens.
More than a biography, the film invites viewers to reflect on the power of ideas, and the lasting impact one individual can have on history. As the narrative traces Herzl’s legacy, it explores how his writings and diplomatic efforts sparked a political and cultural movement that outlived him and transformed the course of the 20th century. Whether you are familiar with Herzl’s life or discovering it for the first time, this documentary offers a thoughtful, accessible, and deeply engaging look at the man who transformed the discourse of his era.
Directed by: Dominic Howlett and James Dann
Produced by: Sir Bernard Zissman and Geoff Morrow (Generation Films), James Haslam and Lucy Percival (Window Zebra Productions)
Narrated by: David Baddiel and Stephen Fry
Editing by: Paul D. Jones
Camera by: Dominic Howlett
Documentary | 60 minutes | English | United Kingdom, 2025.
The film will be available to view free of charge for one week, from 17–24 April 2026.
To watch: Please click here
We wish to thank Eunice Tan at 7th Art Releasing for her support in making this screening possible.
Further LBI Film Club screenings will be announced via our website and social media channels.
Enjoy the film!
