Film Details
Filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania created a docudrama inspired by the emergency phone call recording of Hind Rajab, a six-year-old Palestinian girl who sought help during a siege in Gaza City in 2024. Ben Hania stated that hearing the recording compelled her to shift her filmmaking focus to tell Hind's story. Hind, her family, and two paramedics sent to rescue her were killed, reportedly by Israeli fire according to media investigations. Ben Hania described her motivation as a way to address feelings of helplessness and bear witness to the events.
Background of Events
Hind Rajab's car was reportedly struck by suspected Israeli fire while she and her family attempted to escape bombing in Gaza. Despite family members being killed, Hind made contact with the Palestinian Red Crescent Society. The ambulance dispatched to rescue her was also shelled, resulting in the deaths of Hind, her family, and the ambulance crew. The Israel Defense Force (IDF) initially stated its troops were not in the area, but independent investigations by Forensic Architecture, Earshot, and Al Jazeera indicated damage consistent with Israeli tank fire. The IDF later acknowledged conducting operations in Gaza City neighborhoods, including Tel al Hawa, where Hind's call originated. The United Nations has referenced her case in an inquiry accusing Israel of war crimes, a claim Israel denies. The IDF spokesperson informed the BBC that the case is under review by Israel's Fact-Finding Assessment Mechanism (FFAM).
Film Narrative and Reception
The film recounts Hind and her family's story from the perspective of Red Crescent volunteers in Ramallah. Ben Hania describes the film as "based on true events" and aiming to "provoke empathy." The feature combines actual audio of Hind's final phone calls with the Red Crescent with dramatized visuals featuring actors portraying the volunteers. Critical reception has acknowledged the film's emotional impact, with some critics noting ethical questions regarding the blending of documentary and drama. Variety's Guy Lodge found the recording deeply moving but questioned the concept's ethics. The Telegraph's Robbie Collin praised the film for transcending shock value and presenting an "ethical dilemma."
The film, nominated for a Golden Globe in the best foreign language film category, features an ensemble cast of Palestinian origin. Ben Hania obtained the blessing of Hind's mother, Wesam, and focused on respecting the volunteers' testimonies, stating her film is not an investigation but rather builds on existing findings from media outlets. The film depicts scenes of call center workers, including Omar (Motaz Malhees) and Mahdi (Amer Hlehel), attempting to secure a safe rescue route. Actors involved in the production reported intense emotional experiences during filming.
Ben Hania aimed to convey her initial emotional response to Hind's plea for help to the audience. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian gave a four-star review, describing the film as having "provocative brilliance" for addressing a relevant contemporary issue.
International Recognition
Ben Hania emphasized the importance of making Hind's voice resonate internationally. To broaden the film's reach, executive producers including Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix, and Rooney Mara were involved. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival in September, receiving a 23-minute standing ovation and the grand jury prize. It has been shortlisted for Best International Feature for the upcoming Oscar nominations.