From Ground Zero: Release date, plot and everything we know so far
From Ground Zero is a collection of 22 short films made by Palestinian filmmakers from Gaza. This anthology film is set for its U.S. release on January 3, 2025, through Watermelon Pictures. American viewers can watch the film in select theaters, while Canadian audiences will have to wait for Objectif 9 to confirm a release date.
The project shows what life was like in Gaza after the conflict between Israel and Hamas in October 2023. Each story in the collection shows a different point of view, with a mix of film types, like animation, documentary, and fiction.
From Ground Zero was first screened at the Amman International Film Festival on July 5, 2024. It was featured at the 49th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 9, 2024. It was sent as the official entry from Palestine for 97th Academy Awards in the category of 'Best International Feature Film'.
Launched by Rashid Masharawi, the initiative brings short films that span over 3 to 6 minutes each.
From Ground Zero is set to release on January 3, 2025
From Ground Zero is a cinematic endeavor initiated by Rashid Masharawi to amplify Gazan voices. Every short film in this anthology is evidence of the resilience of Palestinian filmmakers amidst the Israel-Hamas war.
For instance, one of the short films titled Out Of Frame explores the fragmented memories of a child navigating loss. Taxi Waneesa, on other hand, provides a glimpse into the life of a driver who witnesses Gaza’s complexities from behind the wheel. Moreover, Echo uses experimental techniques to depict the psychological toll of war, and Selfies captures fleeting moments of joy amidst chaos.
Although scheduled to debut at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, the film’s political undertones led to its exclusion. According to +972 Magazine, Masharawi staged an outdoor screening in protest, demonstrating the urgency of these stories. Following its premiere in Amman, the anthology gained international acclaim at festivals like TIFF.
The 22 short films and directors
From Ground Zero comprises 22 films, each directed to reflect the diverse directorial perspectives within Gaza. Below is a list of the films and their creators:
- Out Of Frame, Directed by Nidaa Abu Hasna
- Hill Of Heaven, Directed by Kareem Satoum
- Charm, Directed by Bashar Al-Balbeisi
- Awakening, Directed by Mahdi Karirah
- Jad and Natalie, Directed by Aws Al-Banna
- No, Directed by Hana Awad
- Everything is Fine, Directed by Nidal Damo
- Taxi Waneesa, Directed by E’temad Weshah
- 24 Hours, Directed by Alaa Damo
- Selfies, Directed by Reema Mahmoud
- No Signal, Directed by Muhammad Alshareef
- Soft Skin, Directed by Khamees Masharawi
- Flash Back, Directed by Islam Al Zrieai
- Fragments, Directed by Basil Al-Maqousi
- Offerings, Directed by Mustafa Al-Nabih
- School Day, Directed by Ahmed Al-Danf
- Farah and Meryam, Directed by Wissam Moussa
- Overburden, Directed by Ala’a Ayob
- The Teacher, Directed by Tamer Najm
- Recycling, Directed by Rabab Khamees
- Echo, Directed by Mustafa Kallab
- Sorry Cinema, Directed by Ahmad Hassouna
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Production details
The creation of From Ground Zero was a challenging yet inspiring journey. Rashid Masharawi established the Masharawi Fund for Cinema and Filmmakers to support young Palestinian filmmakers.
Shot in late 2023, the anthology captures Gaza’s resilience during one of its most tumultuous periods. Masharawi wanted these directors to be able to share their own narratives, so providing a forum for unspoken voices.
About the anthology film from the director's perspective
The films in From Ground Zero delve into various facets of life in Gaza. Themes include the day-to-day struggles of families, the impact of war on children, and the community’s unyielding spirit. Each film presents a distinct narrative, weaving together moments of despair and hope.
In an interview with Variety on July 16, 2024, Rashid Masharawi stated:
"I was born and grew up in Gaza, I made many films in Gaza as a director and producer, and this time after I saw all what’s going on, I said, ‘No, I am not going to make a film, instead, I’m going to give the chance to the Palestinian filmmakers, and filmmakers who are in Gaza now, sharing what’s going on with the people,'”
To emphasize the intensity of the real-life situation, he added:
“This is one of the films I have a special relation with, because you spend your life thinking that cinema is your priority in life. And suddenly, no, it’s not. You need to eat; save your family. Humans are more important than cinema,”
Stay tuned for more news and updates on From Ground Zero and similar projects as the new year progresses.
