Powerful Hostage Documentary “Letter to David” Set for Nationwide Release in Germany

The acclaimed HOT8 documentary *“Letter to David”*, telling the harrowing story of kidnapped Israeli hostage David Cunio from Kibbutz Nir Oz, continues its international journey with wide distribution in Germany through mindjazz pictures.

Directed by Tom Shoval, the film chronicles David’s abduction by Hamas on October 7 alongside his brother Ariel, both of whom are still being held in Gaza. Premiering at the Berlin Film Festival, the film has resonated strongly on the global circuit and is now a contender for Israel’s Ophir Award for Best Documentary.

As I wrote in my review: this is a work that refuses to close, a bleeding wound still waiting for catharsis. In a world accustomed to neat endings, Shoval leaves us with open questions, raw pain, and an unbroken thread of hope. His personal bond with David is evident in every frame, every artistic choice, making the film deeply intimate but also powerful on a universal level.

This fall, additional screenings are planned across the U.S., Argentina, Albania, Bulgaria, and Austria, as well as special programs at leading Jewish film festivals marking two years since the events of October 7.

“I’m moved that German audiences will now get to know David and the Cunio family, to feel the fracture we’re living through,” said director Tom Shoval, stressing that “nothing is more urgent than ending this war and bringing the hostages home.”

Rinat Klein of HOT8 added: “We’re proud to take part in a powerful work that crosses borders and connects the international community to the story of David, Ariel, and the Cunio family.”

“Letter to David” is not only a powerful call to action in a universal language of humanity and grief, it is a living testimony to what happened, what is still unfolding, and the better ending we all pray for.*