Gidi Dar’s animated film *Legend of Destruction*, depicting the Jewish revolt against Rome and the destruction of the Second Temple, is now available for digital purchase in the United States on platforms including Apple TV, Google Play, and Prime Video.

The English-language version features a cast led by Oscar Isaac as Ben Batich, an idealistic young zealot whose fight against Roman rule and local corruption evolves into fanaticism. Evangeline Lilly voices Queen Berenice, Elliott Gould portrays Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai, Billy Zane appears as rebel leader Bar Giora, and Marilu Henner voices Batich’s mother. The film was directed by Dar, known for previous works such as *Ushpizin* and *Eddie King*, and co-written by Dar and frequent collaborator Shuli Rand. The two also premiered their latest project, *The Wedding Entertainer (The Tale of Moishe Badhan)*, earlier this year at the Tribeca Festival.

*Legend of Destruction* presents ancient Jerusalem through an innovative artistic approach, using approximately 1,500 original paintings by artists David Polonsky, recognized for his work on *Waltz with Bashir*, and Michael Faust. Rather than traditional animation, the film employs a still-image technique designed to engage viewers’ imaginations and add emotional depth by encouraging them to mentally fill in the motion. Dar explained that by foregoing the conventional 24 frames per second, the film creates a distinct viewing experience.

The narrative is rooted in historical accounts such as Josephus’s *The Jewish War*, alongside Talmudic legends and extensive historical research. It follows the 66 CE rebellion’s trajectory, illustrating how internal divisions within Jewish society contributed to its downfall and the Roman recapture of Jerusalem.

Isaac remarked on the unique visual style, saying he soon stopped noticing the images were paintings and compared the experience to watching a live-action historical epic like *Gladiator*. Lilly referred to the film as a “warning signal for the modern world,” highlighting its contemporary relevance.

Further details about the film are available at legendofdestruction.com.