Meet Rotem Alima | Film and TV Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rotem Alima and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rotem, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
As a producer and a filmmaker, I’ve always felt that art could make the world a better place. At first, I wanted to make art that would inspire people and help them see things differently. But everything changed on October 8th.
Like other Jewish people, I was still shocked by the terrible things that happened on October 7th. I thought the rest of the world would support us, since they saw what we went through. But on October 8th, I was shocked to see so much hate and prejudice against Jews.
That was when I knew I had to use my art to fight back against hate. Art became my voice, my way of speaking out, my way of helping people understand what was happening. Through my work, I want to create a world where people are kind to each other and where the truth matters.

It was then that I also realized that the more they hate us and spread lies and misinformation about us, the stronger we get.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Growing up in a small town in the countryside of Israel, I faced many challenges: being the youngest of six and the child of immigrants. I encountered skepticism and mockery from my peers who couldn’t fathom my big dreams in film and TV production. They would say, “Hollywood? Movies? You?! Ha ha ha, keep dreaming…” They called me Hollywood, not as a nickname, but to mock me. How dare I dream big from a small peripheral town in the Middle East?
Despite the adversity, my parents instilled in me a strong work ethic and a relentless pursuit of my goals. I recall sitting with my mother after another long day at work when she said, “I don’t know where you get your ambition from, and you never seem to give up.” I looked at her and said, “You’re kidding. I’ve been watching you my whole life.” “What have I done that was so exceptional?” she wondered. “Well, you’ve come here as an immigrant. You and Dad worked extremely hard to ensure your six children have everything they need, including education, preparing us for a better life.” “Well, no one said life is supposed to be a picnic, right?” She smiled.
Life was not a picnic in film school either, where I had to compete fiercely to prove my worth. And later, working in some of Israel’s leading production companies wasn’t a walk in the park. I was constantly “the outsider,” “that girl from the periphery,” “the new girl,” etc. It became the norm for me. If I weren’t being ridiculed or bullied, I would pinch myself to ensure I was in real life and not a simulation. The way I saw it, having to prove myself repeatedly was keeping me in shape. I was growing mentally and constantly sharpening my skills.
Being a woman of color in the industry has only strengthened my resolve. When they criticized me for being different, I flipped the script and told them they were right—I was unique. I’ve embraced my unique perspective and used it as a source of inspiration, knowing that diversity is essential and a powerful catalyst for innovation and change.
Moving to the U.S. alone, starting from scratch, and navigating a new industry demanded remarkable resilience. I find strength in knowing that each challenge I overcome adds another layer to my story and empowers me to be a voice for those who may face similar obstacles. My resilience is a product of my past, a testament to my family’s sacrifices, and a commitment to breaking barriers in an industry where diversity is both a challenge and an opportunity. It’s a flame that refuses to be extinguished, fueled by the belief that my journey can pave the way for others to dream big and break through the limitations society may impose.
In addition to these experiences, I’ve been recognized as an Israeli Academy Award-winning producer. My movie “Paris on the Water” secured the Student Oscar, and I am proud to be a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. Through my successful production company, we’ve collaborated with industry giants such as Samsung, Playtika, and ZipRecruiter, and I’ve had the privilege of working with notable figures like Gal Gadot. It’s an honor to share stories that promote equality, celebrate love, and showcase the achievement of significant dreams.
As a film and TV producer, I bring stories to life, creating immersive and impactful experiences for audiences worldwide. What excites me most about this work is the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries, connect diverse perspectives, and inspire change. Each project offers an opportunity to delve into unique narratives, whether it’sshedding light on untold stories, challenging societal norms, or simply providing a captivating escape for viewers.
What sets my approach apart is a commitment to authenticity and representation. Coming from a background where diversity was both a challenge and a strength, I strive to infuse my projects with a rich tapestry of voices and experiences. It’s not just about creating entertainment; it’s about contributing to a broader cultural conversation and amplifying underrepresented voices in the industry.
One aspect I find particularly special about my work is the collaborative nature of film and TV production. It’s a symphony of creativity, where each department contributes to the final masterpiece. From script development to casting, cinematography, and post-production, every step is a unique journey, and the magic lies in the collective effort of a dedicated team.
Specifically, one of my recent projects, which I was honored to have produced, was a documentary named “There Is No Love Like This.” It follows the inspiring journey of a gay Israeli couple who traveled to the USA to fulfill their dream of having a baby through a surrogate. The documentary celebrates love and equality and highlights the accomplishment of their significant dream of welcoming a baby girl into their lives. There were countless times that I felt goosebumps during filming, as those were such authentic and emotionally charged moments.
Projects like this allow me to share meaningful stories that promote inclusivity and showcase the beauty of diverse experiences. Looking ahead, I am eager to explore new avenues, collaborate with diverse talents, and continue championing meaningful narratives. The world of film and TV is dynamic, and I believe in the transformative power of storytelling to shape perceptions, challenge norms, and foster understanding. I invite our readers to join me on this journey, where each project is not just a creation but a celebration of the diverse tapestry that makes up our global storytelling landscape.
Reflecting on my film and TV production journey, three key attributes have significantly shaped my path: resilience, adaptability, and the art of nurturing relationships. These qualities instrumental in my journey are kindness and relationship-building, adaptability, and resilience, all evident in one poignant example.
A young filmmaker in her early 20s, Rotem Alima, who shares the same name as me, reached out to me. Having an unusual name, which was the same as mine, made this encounter both weird and funny—a good conversation starter. She faced many hurdles as a newcomer in the industry, and I decided to extend a helping hand despite our age difference and the fact that there was “nothing in it for me.” Over a year, I found myself mentoring her, sharing insights, and offering guidance, fully aware that she might not have much to offer in return at that moment.
Fast forward to a pivotal moment in my career when I was shooting a TV show in Miami. I needed a specific location, and the owner was reluctant to engage with me. I was close to giving up, but then I said, “Rotem, you’re not a quitter. You will find a way.” The following day, I woke up, remembering that the “other Rotem” grew up in Miami. I reached out to her for help, and it turned out that her dad was acquainted with the location’s owner. Thanks to her connection, I secured the area for the shoot.
As our professional relationship evolved, Rotem and I discovered an unexpected twist in the plot—we are related. This revelation led us to collaborate on a documentary showcasing the Jewish community that once thrived in Iraq and no longer exists, exploring our family history and the broader cultural narrative.
This experience reaffirms my belief in the power of kindness and genuine connections. By offering support and mentorship without expecting immediate returns, we create a network that not only aids our journeys but also unfolds into unexpected opportunities and collaborations. It’s a testament to the interconnectedness of our professional and personal lives and how cultivating relationships with authenticity and kindness, coupled with adaptability and resilience, can lead to remarkable outcomes.
So, to newcomers, I say: be perpetually curious and open to change. Engage with new ideas, keep abreast of industry shifts, and be prepared to pivot. Cultivate a mindset that sees hurdles as chances to hone your craft, with resilience fueling your relentless pursuit of excellence. And give before you receive.
Over the last year, my life has been profoundly altered by my father’s declining health and his eventual passing. This period has been marked by deep sorrow, as my father was more than a parent to me; he was my closest ally and friend, with whom I shared an unbreakable bond. The distance between my family, especially my fantastic mom in Israel and me in LA, only intensified the difficulties of coping with his loss.
During this time of profound grief, I embarked on a journey to find a balance between mourning and seeking joy. The void left by my father’s absence has been overwhelming. Yet, I have understood the significance of celebrating his life by pursuing the happiness he constantly desired for me. This path of reconciling joy with sadness has been both challenging and transformative.
A pivotal part of my growth has been openness to new experiences and connections, even amidst sorrow. This phase has taught me that life encompasses a spectrum of emotions, and embracing this complexity has revealed an inner strength I hadn’t recognized before. My father’s legacy of wishing for my contentment and success fuels my commitment to lead a life filled with joy and purpose in tribute to him.
This experience has underscored that personal growth often stems from adversity. It’s about harnessing resilience to transform grief into motivation, drawing on cherished memories and love to move forward. The pain of my father’s loss will forever be a facet of my life, yet it now serves as a driving force for emotional and personal development.
By sharing my experience, I aim to offer hope to others navigating their trials. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound capacity for love, encouraging an embrace of life’s full emotional range. This journey highlights the strength in sorrow and the potential for joy amidst loss, honoring the unyielding power of the human heart and the everlasting impact of love.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Because of what’s happening now, I’d take them to the Museum of Tolerance. It’s a place where you can learn about the Holocaust and the importance of treating everyone fairly. It reminds us of what happened to Jewish people before we had Israel, a safe place for us.
Then, we’d hike at Murphy’s Ranch, an old Nazi camp. It’s a reminder that even though people have tried to hurt us in the past, we’re still here, and we’re strong.
It might sound sad, emotionally heavy or even morbid, but this is what many Jewish people are dealing with these days. But this time, we won’t hide from evil – we will fight it.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A: Yes, I want to thank my amazing parents, Zehava and Uri Alima. They always taught me to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s hard.
They supported me and showed me how to be strong and kind, even when faced with problems. I wouldn’t be the artist I am today without them.

Website: https://www.rotemalima.com