Objector – refusing conscription in Israel

This AWARD-WINNING film documents the journey of Atalya Ben-Abba, a Conscientious Objector to conscription in the Israeli Defence Force.

Like all Israeli youth, Atalya is expected to become a soldier. Unlike most, she questions the practices of her country’s military, and becomes determined to challenge this rite of passage. Despite her family’s political disagreements and personal concerns, she refuses military duty and is imprisoned for her dissent. Her courage moves those around her to reconsider their own political positions and power to effect change.

Objector follows Atalya to prison and beyond, offering a unique window into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from the perspective of a young woman who seeks truth and takes a stand for justice.

“Atalya is a remarkable young woman, exhibiting a rare courage. Watching her family transform as a result of the catalyst of her conviction was utterly inspiring.”
– Ayelet Waldman, New York Times Best Selling Author

“Objector is a wonderful demonstration of the power of young women to conscientize their communities and bring about change. The openness of the filmmaking approach, as well as Atalya’s in questioning the values of her community, are very disarming. ”
– Sarah Dawson, IDFA Programmer

“Concise, quietly powerful OBJECTOR reels you in and keeps your attention until its full-circle conclusion.”
– Wendy Shreve, Featuring Film

“The doc gives voice to a generation of concerned citizens who believe that violence is not the road to peace …”
– Pat Mullen, Point of View Magazine

“This speaks to the heart of civil disobedience”
– Alan Ng, Film Threat

“Every society needs citizens like Atalya who question the way things are done and expect an answer as to why those things are being done. Stuart’s film will surely have you digging a bit deeper in your own thoughts.”
– David Ferguson, International Policy Digest

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Moved by the film and want to get involved? Head to the Objector website for some ways to help make a difference, like signing the Solidarity letter in support of the Conscientious Objectors: objectorfilm.com/impact/