"Savoy" is a captivating hybrid documentary directed by Zohar Wagner that unearths the untold story of Kochava Levy, a young housewife who became an unexpected heroine during one of the most terrifying nights in Israeli history. On a fateful night in March 1975, eight PLO gunmen stormed the Savoy Hotel in Tel Aviv, taking hostages and demanding the release of Palestinian prisoners. Among the hostages was Kochava Levy, a woman of Yemeni descent whose fluency in Arabic transformed her into an essential intermediary between the terrorists and the IDF negotiators.
The film skillfully blends rare archival footage and dramatic reenactments to reconstruct the harrowing events of that night. Through these vivid depictions, viewers are transported back to the tense atmosphere within the Savoy Hotel, experiencing the fear, bravery, and eventual heroism of Levy. Her courage and linguistic skills enabled her to navigate the dangerous negotiations, relaying messages that were crucial to the eventual resolution of the siege.
Despite her heroism, Levy's story took a tragic turn as she was later defamed and her contributions largely forgotten by history. "Savoy" not only seeks to commemorate her bravery but also to rectify the narrative that overshadowed her legacy. The documentary serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of heroism and the often-overlooked stories of ordinary individuals who perform extraordinary acts in times of crisis.
Director Zohar Wagner's meticulous attention to detail and dedication to authenticity shine through in this poignant film. By combining documentary elements with re-enactments, Wagner creates a compelling narrative that is both informative and emotionally engaging. "Savoy" stands as a tribute to Kochava Levy and all unsung heroes who have played pivotal roles in history without due recognition.