After Initial Rejection, October 7 Documentary Wins TIFF People’s Choice Award

IFCJ Canada  |  September 19, 2025

Canadian director Barry Avrich’s documentary film The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue made headlines at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) when organizers disinvited and removed the screening from their schedule. Now, it’s once again in the public eye as The Jerusalem Post reports that the film was not only shown but won the People’s Choice Award for best documentary.

“To win this award is thrilling for Mark and I. The audience voted and I appreciate that. And we look forward to the rest of this journey,” Avrich said while accepting the trophy alongside producer Mark Selby.

“And Cameron, thank you. I appreciate everything that TIFF has done for us,” Avrich added.

The Road Between Us will be mostly self-released on around 125 screens in more than 20 cities throughout North America beginning October 3.

The Road Between Us tells the story of Noam Tibon and his journey to rescue his family from Hamas after they were taken during the October 7 attacks from Kibbutz Nir Oz. He had gotten a call from his son at the time and wasted no time in springing into action to save his loved ones.

The true story of Noam Tibon reflects a terrible reality that several Israeli families experienced on October 7. IFCJ Canada and its generous supporters provide support for victims of war and affirms that their stories not only deserve but need to be told.