“Outsider. Freud,” the critically acclaimed documentary directed by Yair Qedar exploring the life and work of Sigmund Freud, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Gradiva Award by the National Association for the Advancement of Psychoanalysis. This award, widely regarded as the “Oscar” of the psychoanalytic world, recognizes exceptional contributions to the field through film, literature or theatre.
Premiering last year, “Outsider. Freud” has already been screened in 20 countries and has received 15 international awards.
The film presents Freud’s experiences as a Jewish outsider in Vienna, examining the intersections of identity, culture and marginalization that shaped his life and work. By combining animation, dream sequences, archival materials and insights from leading psychoanalysts, the film offers an intimate portrait of Freud, focusing on his resilience, creativity and intellectual legacy.
The Jewish dimension is central to the film.
It highlights Freud’s cultural heritage; the social and political challenges he faced as a member of a minority community; and the profound influence of these experiences on his psychoanalytic theories.
Through this literal lens, the film illuminates Freud not only as the founder of psychoanalysis but also as an individual navigating the complexities of identity, tradition and societal exclusion.
International reception has been highly positive:
“The best film ever made about Freud.” – George Makari, historian
“Masterpiece.” – Monika Pessler, director, Freud Museum, Vienna
“A poetic, delicate and thought-provoking film.” – Shmuel Munitz, Ynet
“Excellent film.” – Helit Yeshurun, translator
“Rare film.” – Harvey Schwartz, On and Off the Couch podcast
“Outsider. Freud” is part of The Hebrews Project, an innovative lab producing biographical documentaries about prominent Jewish and Israeli writers. The project blends literature, cinema and original music to create unique, poetic and visually rich narratives that explore the intersection of Jewish culture, history and artistic expression.
For more information, listen to the IPA podcast. To order screenings, visit: ivrim.co.il/en/films/outsider-freud/
