The anthology showcases 22 stories by Gaza-based filmmakers, created under the challenging conditions of ongoing bombings, with filmmakers risking their lives to bring these narratives to the screen.
The Palestinian Ministry of Culture has selected the film From Ground Zero to represent Palestine in the Oscar race for Best International Feature Film. This anthology film, created by 22 filmmakers, captures the realities on the ground in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas conflict that erupted in October 2023.
From Ground Zero is set to make its North American debut at the Toronto International Film Festival, running from September 6 to 15, following its world premiere at the fifth edition of the Amman International Film Festival.
In November 2023, Gaza-born director Rashid Masharawi founded the Masharawi Fund to support films and filmmakers in Gaza. The fund’s first project, From Ground Zero, aimed to give internally displaced artists a platform to express their personal stories amidst the devastation of Israel’s prolonged assault, which led to severe humanitarian crises and widespread trauma.
The anthology comprises 22 short films, each ranging from three to six minutes, showcasing a variety of genres and narrative styles, including documentary, drama, animation and experimental video art. Together, these works offer context and a counter-narrative to the often gruesome images broadcast globally.
Speaking about the initiative, Masharawi said: “One of the main goals of this initiative is to provide an opportunity for artists, youth, and filmmakers in Gaza, both professionals and beginners, to express themselves through art and convey untold stories, especially personal ones, in a manner that fulfills artistic and technical quality.” He further emphasised that the project has “restored self-confidence and a sense of initiative to its participants, helping them overcome despair and frustration, instilling in them some of the lost hope and optimism.”
The Royal Film Commission – Jordan, along with other partners, contributed to the funding of From Ground Zero.
Last year, Palestine submitted the documentary Bye Bye Tiberias, which explored director Lina Soualem’s family history. Palestine has previously earned two nominations in the Best International Feature category with the films Paradise Now (2005) and Omar (2013).
