Theodore Herzl: The Man Behind Israel introduces audiences to the unlikely visionary who transformed a centuries-old dream into a modern political movement. In the face of rising antisemitism across 19th-century Europe, assimilated journalist and playwright Theodor Herzl came to a radical conclusion: Jews could not be safe in the diaspora. Inspired by his experience covering the notorious Dreyfus Affair in Paris, Herzl dedicated his life to advocating for a Jewish homeland.

More than a simple biography, the film explores the complex journey of a man who was initially secular and knew little of Hebrew culture, yet went on to become the "father of modern political Zionism". The documentary follows Herzl as he publishes his galvanizing treatise, Der Judenstaat (The Jewish State), and organizes the first Zionist Congress in 1897. From securing diplomatic meetings with world leaders to grappling with internal dissent, the film documents how Herzl's indefatigable will laid the foundation for a state that would not be established until decades after his death in 1904.

Featuring historical accounts, archival footage, and expert analysis, Theodore Herzl: The Man Behind Israel examines how one man's political vision profoundly shaped the destiny of an entire people and set the stage for the creation of the State of Israel in 1948.

Dominic Howlett

Dominic Howlett was born on 1 January 1995 in Southampton, Hampshire, England, UK. He is a director and cinematographer, known for End of Infinity (2024), Mexed (2021) and The Smoking Fish (2021).

James Dann is a producer / director with over 15 years experience in creating high-end branded content and documentaries.

His clients include The UN, eBay, Amazon, Xbox, Capital FM, NHS, BBC, C4, CNN, Saudi Ministry of Culture and Tourism and many more.