Jacob Goldwasser, the Israeli director and screenwriter behind films like “Shoelaces,” “She’s Got It,” and “Max and Morris,” died on September 24, 2026, at the age of 76. His death was confirmed by colleagues and representatives close to his family.
Born in Tel Aviv on September 11, 1950, Goldwasser built a career spanning more than four decades. His work on “Shoelaces” earned him recognition in Israeli cinema circles, and he received the Ophir Award for best director. Goldwasser also served on the board of the Israeli Academy of Film and Television.
He was active as an educator, teaching film and directing at Beit Berl, Bezalel, Tel Aviv University, and the Sam Spiegel Film School. His influence extended beyond the screen, with many students citing him as a mentor.
Goldwasser’s career included more than just directing. He was involved in screenwriting for several films, including “Max and Morris,” a comedy about two men tasked with a peculiar mission, and “She’s Got It,” a romantic drama released in 2003. His films often explored themes of human connection and identity, though he kept a low profile compared to Israel’s more internationally recognized directors.
His death comes after a lifetime of contribution to Israeli cinema. His work was appreciated for its straightforward storytelling and emotional clarity. The Ophir Award he received in 2004 for best director was among the honors recognizing his impact.
Colleagues confirmed his passing but offered few details. A statement from the Israeli Film and Television Academy said, “Jacob Goldwasser was a talented filmmaker and dedicated teacher. His contribution to Israeli cinema is immeasurable.”
Goldwasser also served on the board of the Israeli Academy of Film and Television. His influence extended into the academic world, where he taught at multiple institutions including Beit Berl and Tel Aviv University.
He remained active in the film community until recent years. His last credited work was a documentary about Israeli filmmakers in 2018. Friends and students remember him as a patient teacher and a steady presence behind the camera.
Goldwasser’s passing leaves a void in Israel’s film scene. His films, though not as widely known outside Israel as some of his peers, have been praised for their honesty and simplicity. His work reflected a commitment to storytelling that prioritized character and dialogue.
His family has yet to release details about funeral arrangements. But his legacy persists in the films he made and the students he mentored. Several Israeli filmmakers who studied under him expressed their condolences on social media.
Goldwasser’s death arrives just as Israeli cinema continues to grow internationally. His contributions helped shape a generation of filmmakers who value authenticity over spectacle.
He is survived by family members who have requested privacy. His death was confirmed by sources close to the family, who said he died peacefully in Tel Aviv. The film community in Israel will remember him for his quiet dedication and the films that bore his name.
According to Dead-People.