Salman Rushdie Premieres Documentary on 2022 Stabbing Attack at Sundance
PARK CITY, Utah — More than three years after a near-fatal stabbing attack that left him with permanent injuries, Salman Rushdie took to the spotlight at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival to premiere a documentary chronicling the harrowing 2022 assault. The film, titled “Knife: The Attempted Murder of Salman Rushdie,” offers an intimate look at the violent attack and its aftermath, as well as the broader implications of terrorism on freedom of expression.
Rushdie, 78, who sustained severe damage to his liver and nerves in his hand during the attack, spoke candidly about the motivation behind the documentary. “The reason for doing it is that I felt it wasn’t just about me, that there were principles at stake, and that actually maybe people should see what a terrorist attack looks like up close,” he told The Wrap during the festival.
In August 2022, Rushdie was assaulted on stage by an assailant identified as Hadi Matar, who was later sentenced to 25 years in prison in May 2025 for the brutal attack. The assault left Rushdie partially blind in one eye and with lasting physical impairments, yet he has remained resolute in continuing his work as a writer and public figure. “I told myself to go on being the person I was,” Rushdie said, underscoring his refusal to let terrorism divert his life or message.
The documentary’s premiere at Sundance, a festival known for showcasing powerful and socially relevant films, has brought renewed attention to issues of free speech and the threats posed by extremist violence. The attack on Rushdie, whose works have long been controversial and subject to threats, highlights the ongoing risks faced by artists and intellectuals worldwide.
Authorities and experts emphasize the importance of confronting terrorism without succumbing to fear or censorship. The Federal Bureau of Investigation continues to monitor domestic and international threats to public safety, while organizations like the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Counterterrorism work to coordinate global efforts against extremist violence.
Rushdie’s story, as portrayed in the documentary, serves as a testament to resilience and the enduring power of free expression in the face of violent intimidation. His decision to share his experience publicly aligns with broader efforts to raise awareness about the human cost of terrorism and the necessity of protecting fundamental rights.
For more information on terrorism prevention and civil liberties, the Department of Homeland Security’s Counterterrorism Division offers resources and guidance, emphasizing vigilance and community engagement.
The film’s debut at Sundance not only honors Rushdie’s personal courage but also challenges audiences to confront the realities of extremist violence head-on, reinforcing the imperative to uphold freedom and resist the silencing effects of terror.
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