Documentary film about Gaza earns Silver Lion award at Venice Film Festival
In the heart of Venice, the 79th Venice International Film Festival was held, and among the various films screened, one stood out for its poignant and impactful narrative - the docudrama "The Voice of Hind Rajab". Directed by Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, the film recounts the harrowing events of January 29, 2024, when 5-year-old Hind Rajab was the only survivor in a car hit by Israeli forces in Gaza.
The screening of "The Voice of Hind Rajab" at its premiere received a rapturous response from the audience, including a standing ovation lasting more than 22 minutes. The film tells the story of Hind's desperate phone call to Red Crescent volunteers seeking help during the attack. Volunteers tried to maintain contact and summon an ambulance, but both the vehicle and the girl were struck before help could arrive.
Hania, the film's director, dedicated the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize to the Palestinian Red Crescent and praised the "heroes" working in first response teams. In her acceptance speech, she said, "May Hind rest in peace, may the eyes of her killers never sleep, and free Palestine." She added that Hind's voice will continue to echo until accountability and justice are served.
Hania also emphasized that the story of Hind Rajab is also the story of the "criminal Israeli regime that acts with impunity." She stated that Hind's voice was a cry for rescue that the entire world could hear, but no one answered.
Meanwhile, the festival's Golden Lion for best film was awarded to Jim Jarmusch's "Father Mother Sister Brother." Benny Safdie won the Silver Lion for best director with "The Smashing Machine."
Despite the triumph of "The Voice of Hind Rajab" at the Venice Film Festival, the situation in Gaza remains dire. Hind's family and countless others in Gaza still face danger, fear, and hunger under daily bombardment. Hania urged world leaders to act in response to the ongoing situation in Gaza.
As the world watches, the story of Hind Rajab continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the injustices faced by the people of Palestine. Through cinema, Hania has preserved Hind's voice, ensuring that it continues to resonate and demand justice.
Read also:
- Impact of Alcohol on the Human Body: Nine Aspects of Health Alteration Due to Alcohol Consumption
- Understanding the Concept of Obesity
- Tough choices on August 13, 2025 for those born under Aquarius? Consider the advantages and disadvantages to gain guidance
- Microbiome's Impact on Emotional States, Judgement, and Mental Health Conditions
