The documentary No Other Land made Oscar history on March 2, 2025, by winning the award for Best Documentary Feature at the 97th Academy Awards. Co-directed by Palestinian activist Basel Adra and Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham, the film explores the devastating effects of Israeli military actions on Palestinian communities, particularly focusing on the demolitions of homes and the uprooting of families. This powerful work not only captivates with its personal storytelling but also serves as a call to action against the injustices faced by Palestinians.
Adra, who documented the destruction of his hometown, Masafer Yatta, expressed the film's essence during his acceptance speech. "We call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people," he urged, highlighting the immediate need for global attention and intervention.
The film details the dire circumstances faced by residents as the Israeli military seeks to extend its control over the area by repurposing land for military use. Filming mostly from 2019 to 2023, Adra dedicatedly captured harrowing images of demolition and displacement, presenting them as part of his resistance. By standing up to the military might with his camera, Adra narratives the plight of his fellow Palestinians who are entangled within larger geopolitical struggles.
Yuval Abraham, sharing the stage with Adra, reinforced the film's collaborative spirit between Palestinians and Israelis. "When I look at Basel, I see my brother, but we are unequal. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law and Basel is under military laws..." This acknowledgment of inequality lays bare the underlying issues plaguing the region, and Abraham’s voice adds a significant layer to the film's impact.
Judge awards received have been numerous for No Other Land, having previously gained accolades at prestigious venues like the Berlin Film Festival and the New York Film Critics Circle Awards. These wins solidified its place as one of the most prominent works discussing the Israeli-Palestinian narrative, emphasizing the role of storytelling as both artistic and political.
Despite its success, No Other Land is still struggling to find distribution within the United States. Many streaming platforms reportedly declined to pick up the film, raising concerns over censorship and the suppression of Palestinian stories. Abraham commented on this issue, stating, "We decided to do the theatrical release independently, and it's now going to show in about 100 theatres in the US." This independent release demonstrates the determination of the filmmakers who are eager to present their narrative to the public.
This year's ceremony took place against the backdrop of rising tensions and escalations following the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas and the subsequent Israeli military operations initiated. The war has claimed thousands of lives and caused unprecedented destruction, with over 48,000 Palestinians reportedly perishing according to Gaza health sources. Addressing this turmoil, both Adra and Abraham’s speeches reflected urgency and desperation for peace and resolution.
Abraham highlighted the potential ways forward, advocating for joint solutions. “There is a different path, a political solution without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people,” he stated. His remarks encapsulate the overdue need for dialogue and cooperation between the two communities, mutually impacted by decades of violence.
The documentary's age-long focus on group struggles against oppression establishes it as more than just entertainment; it’s advocacy for human rights. Adra poignantly articulated, “No Other Land reflects the harsh reality we have been enduring for decades and still resist as we call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people.”
Adra’s hope has gone beyond personal aspirations. The birth of his daughter two months prior added layers of sentiment to his call for change. He mused on the life he hoped she could lead—one free from fear and upheaval, and he spotlighted his drive to advocate for justice as both father and filmmaker.
The Oscar win marks a historic moment for the Palestinian people, as it signifies not only recognition within the cinematic world but also the acknowledgment of their struggles on international platforms. Previously, notable Palestinian films have garnered nominations, but none had achieved the prestigious accolade until now. It raises questions about future opportunities for Palestinian filmmakers and their representation within Hollywood.
While this win might resonate with Palestinians, it also invites scrutiny of U.S. foreign policy toward Israel and the handling of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It emphasizes contradictions within media narratives and highlights how art can influence discourse surrounding conflict resolution.
No Other Land is more than just another documentary; it stands as testimony to dreams unfulfilled, voices suppressed, and stories untold. Its Oscar recognition not only shines a light on the filmmakers' resilience but calls for continued discourse and action surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian situation. Through narratives like Adra’s and Abraham’s, the world is reminded of the power of collaboration and the necessity for justice and peace.