```html Israeli Filmmaker Eran Riklis Navigates Boycotts, Seeks Co-Financing for TV Drama

Prominent Israeli filmmaker Eran Riklis, acclaimed for his humanist films set in the Middle East, including "Lemon Tree," "The Syrian Bride," and "Reading Lolita in Tehran," is facing headwinds as he seeks European partners for his upcoming TV drama, "The Abduction of Yossele Schumacher." Riklis is slated to participate in Tallinn's TV Beats Co-Financing Market (Nov. 7-8) to secure funding for the project, commissioned by Israeli commercial channel Keshet 12.

However, the filmmaker's efforts are complicated by growing anti-Israel sentiment within the global entertainment industry, fueled by political tensions and calls for boycotts. Riklis expresses frustration and concern over the potential impact of these sentiments on his ability to bring his work to the screen, particularly given that nearly 4,000 entertainment industry professionals have signed pledges to boycott Israeli film institutions, which they view as "complicit in war crimes" in Gaza.

"The Abduction of Yossele Schumacher": A True Crime Thriller

"The Abduction of Yossele Schumacher" is a six-part drama thriller based on the true story of the abduction of a seven-year-old Jewish boy in Israel in the early 1960s. Yossele was kidnapped by his ultra-Orthodox grandfather to prevent him from being raised as a secular Jew by his parents. The ensuing international search, led by Israel's secret service Mossad, lasted nearly two years before the boy was found in the U.S. and returned to his family.

According to the series' logline, the abduction "leads three women to clash over his fate and faith and to a fierce conflict between the Israeli Mossad and the impenetrable web of the orthodox community." Riklis, who was a young child during the events, recalls the case as a divisive moment in Israeli society, pitting secular and ultra-Orthodox communities against each other. He emphasizes the story's enduring relevance and its potential to spark dialogue about faith, family, and societal divisions.

Navigating Political Tensions and Boycotts

Riklis acknowledges the challenging political climate surrounding Israel and expresses hope that "nothing political will stand between me and making the series." He also lamented the controversy surrounding Israel's Oscar entry, "The Sea," which depicts a young Palestinian boy risking his life to visit a Tel Aviv beach, and the subsequent threat from Israel's culture minister to cut funding to the Israeli Film Academy.

"I mentored 'The Sea's' director Shai Carmeli Pollak... I loved the story and gave Shai confidence to direct it," Riklis stated, adding that the film's selection as Israel's Oscar entry was a surprise, but that it was also "the best film that represents Israel right now."

Expert Perspective: The Impact of Boycotts on Israeli Cinema

Dr. Ella Shohat, a professor of Cultural Studies at NYU and a leading scholar on Arab and Jewish identity, offers a nuanced perspective on the impact of boycotts on Israeli cinema. "While boycotts can raise awareness about political issues and put pressure on governments, they can also inadvertently harm artists and filmmakers who are critical of Israeli policies," she says. "It's crucial to distinguish between supporting human rights and stifling artistic expression."

Shohat also notes that Israeli cinema is diverse and complex, reflecting a range of perspectives and experiences. "Blanket boycotts risk silencing voices within Israel that are advocating for peace and social justice," she argues.

A Call for Optimism and Dialogue

Despite the challenges, Riklis remains optimistic about the power of storytelling to bridge divides and foster understanding. He draws on his experiences as a soldier in the Yom Kippur War to illustrate the possibility of reconciliation, citing the 1979 peace agreement between Egypt and Israel as an example of seemingly insurmountable differences being overcome.

"As a filmmaker, I want to remain optimistic," Riklis insists. "There are always people trying to make changes and succeeding; we need to have hope." He hopes that "The Abduction of Yossele Schumacher" will resonate with audiences worldwide and spark meaningful conversations about tolerance, faith, and the importance of understanding different perspectives.

Historical Context: Israel's Film Industry and International Relations

Israel's film industry has long been intertwined with the country's political and social landscape. Films often reflect the complexities of Israeli identity, the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the relationship between religious and secular communities. International collaborations have been crucial to the industry's growth, but these collaborations are increasingly vulnerable to political pressures and boycott campaigns.

The success of Israeli films on the international stage, such as "Waltz with Bashir" and "Foxtrot," has often been met with both acclaim and controversy, highlighting the challenges of representing sensitive political issues in a global context. As Riklis seeks co-financing for "The Abduction of Yossele Schumacher," he faces the daunting task of navigating these complexities and ensuring that his artistic vision is not compromised by political agendas. ```