What is the documentary 'No Other Land' about, and why has it been controversial?

The documentary 'No Other Land' is about the demolition of Palestinian villages in the southern West Bank by the IDF. It has been controversial because some view it as a one-sided portrayal that could be seen as antisemitic, while others see it as a necessary discussion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Why did Mayor Steven Meiner propose terminating O Cinema's lease and funding?

Mayor Steven Meiner proposed terminating O Cinema's lease and funding because he views the documentary 'No Other Land' as a 'false one-sided propaganda attack on the Jewish people' that does not align with the city's values.

What are the legal implications of Mayor Meiner's actions, according to civil rights groups?

Civil rights groups, such as the ACLU, argue that Mayor Meiner's actions are unconstitutional and an attack on free speech. They contend that the government cannot withhold benefits because it disagrees with an expressed viewpoint.

How has O Cinema responded to the controversy and pressure from Mayor Meiner?

O Cinema initially agreed to cancel the screenings but later reversed its decision and proceeded with them. The theater emphasized its commitment to showcasing diverse viewpoints and its history of supporting Jewish films.

6 sources·Politics

Miami Beach Mayor Threatens O Cinema Over Controversial Documentary Screening

Mayor Steven Meiner aims to terminate O Cinema's lease and financial aid for screening the documentary 'No Other Land', citing antisemitism concerns.

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While the film has earned wide praise from film critics, it has also drawn controversy.
Miami Beach mayor wants to end lease of theater that screened Israeli-Palestinian documentary
ABC News·6d
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Center
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The mayor of Miami Beach, Fla., is threatening to boot a nonprofit art house cinema from city-owned property over its decision to screen the Academy Award-winning documentary “No Other Land.”
Miami Beach mayor targets local cinema for screening Oscar winner ‘No Other Land’
The Hill·6d
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While the film has earned wide praise from film critics, it has also drawn controversy.
Miami Beach mayor wants to end lease of theater that screened Israeli-Palestinian documentary
Associated Press·6d
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The mayor has since introduced a proposal to terminate the theater’s lease and to rescind tens of thousands of dollars in grant funding.
A Florida mayor is trying to shut down an indie cinema for screening ‘No Other Land’
MSNBC·6d
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This is flagrant government jawboning—an attempt to use the mayor's bully pulpit and the implicit threat of government action to cow the theater into self-censorship.
'No Other Land' won an Oscar. Miami Beach's mayor is trying to evict a movie theater for screening it.
Reason·6d
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Tensions over free speech and Palestinian activism nationwide have been further heightened this week after Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia student activist and green-card holder who helped lead the Palestinian solidarity movement during the college encampments last year, was detained by immigration authorities.
Florida mayor seeks to evict cinema for showing Oscar-winning documentary
The Guardian·6d
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Mar 13th, 2025, 2:05 PM ET

Summary

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Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner has proposed terminating the lease and funding for O Cinema after it screened the Oscar-winning documentary 'No Other Land' about Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Meiner described the film as antisemitic in a resolution set for discussion at the next city commissioner meeting. Despite earlier attempts to discourage O Cinema’s CEO, Vivian Marthell, from showing the film, screenings went ahead, selling out additional dates. The film documents the destruction of Palestinian villages and advocates for unity, raising concerns about free speech as reactions from both the mayor and local civil rights groups continue.

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The Mayor of Miami Beach, Steven Meiner, is attempting to terminate O Cinema's lease for screening the Oscar-winning documentary 'No Other Land,' citing concerns over antisemitic rhetoric and painting the film as anti-Israel propaganda.
Civil liberties advocates, including the ACLU, are warning that the mayor's actions represent a potential violation of the First Amendment, arguing that the government cannot pick and choose which viewpoints are allowed public expression.
The film has gained increased attention and sold-out screenings, indicating a public desire for diverse perspectives on controversial topics like the Israel-Palestine conflict. Some city commissioners caution against the mayor's proposal due to potential legal ramifications.

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