The documentary 'No Other Land' has sent shockwaves through the film industry and beyond after winning the Oscar for Best Documentary at the 2025 Academy Awards. Directed by Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal, and Yuval Abraham, the film combines the voices of Israelis and Palestinians to shed light on the heavy toll of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly focusing on the destruction faced by the Palestinian community of Masafer Yatta.
Upon accepting the Oscar at the Dolby Theatre on March 1, 2025, the filmmakers delivered moving speeches advocating for peace and highlighting their shared humanity. Basel Adra, reflecting on his experience, said, "La distruzione di Gaza deve finire, gli ostaggi israeliani devono essere liberati." This powerful statement encapsulated not only the urgency of the situation but also the hope for liberation on both sides of the conflict.
Adra's emotional appeal was personal, as he recently became a father. He expressed his determination to change the course of his daughter’s future, stating, "Quando sono diventato padre, due mesi fa, ho promesso a mia figlia che non avrebbe vissuto la mia stessa vita, sempre con la paura della violenza e della distruzione di case." This sentiment struck a chord with many, drawing attention to the generational impact of war and occupation.
Yuval Abraham, representing the Israeli perspective, emphasized solidarity with Palestinians, asserting, "Abbiamo fatto questo film, palestinesi e israeliani, perché insieme possiamo essere una voce forte." His words suggested the necessity for cooperation and mutual recognition to pave the way for peace, stating, "La distruzione di Gaza deve finire. Gli ostaggi devono essere liberati. Quando vedo Basel, vedo mio fratello." This heartwarming perspective reflects the film's core message: harmony can arise from shared struggle.
The film itself, which has yet to find distribution within the United States, documents the systematic violence and displacement faced by Palestinians, particularly during 2019 to 2023 when Adra began filming the destruction of his neighborhood. The community of Masafer Yatta has been targeted by Israeli forces to clear the area for military training grounds, resulting in numerous displacements and violations of human rights.
Although the filmmakers celebrated their victory, not all reactions were positive. The Israeli Minister of Culture, Miki Zohar, publicly condemned the Oscar win, describing it as "sabotage" to Israel’s image. He expressed his discontent through social media just hours after the Oscars, claiming the film distorts the complex realities of the Israeli-Palestinian situation. Zohar stated, "La vittoria dell'Oscar per il film No Other Land è un momento triste per il mondo del cinema – invece di presentare la complessità della nostra realtà, i registi hanno scelto di dare eco a narrazioni che distorcono l'immagine di Israele nel mondo."
The criticisms from officials like Zohar highlight the conflict’s sensitive nature and the polarized responses to narratives depicting the plight of Palestinians. The filmmakers are adamant, though, about their mission. They believe media representations can serve as catalysts for social justice and peaceful resolutions.
It's worth noting how the film premiered at the Berlinale 2024, gaining international attention, and reigniting discussions around the humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians. Adra, Szor, Ballal, and Abraham collectively produced this film with limited resources, driven by passion and commitment to their cause. Each frame speaks to the resilience of communities under threat and the urgent need for global action.
By winning the Oscar, 'No Other Land' has provided these artists with a powerful platform to amplify their message to the world—urging for tangible measures against injustice and ethnic cleansing. Adra finished his acceptance speech with the poignant promise to his daughter, hoping she would not endure the same experiences he has faced throughout his life. This hope resonates universally, transcending borders and fostering empathy.
Their story is one of interwoven destinies, highlighting how the deep-seated conflict affects lives regardless of nationality. "Siamo intrecciati. Non saremo mai sicuri se gli altri non saranno sicuri," the filmmakers declared, encapsulating the essence of their work and the necessity of mutual safety. This moment stands as both recognition and call to action; it is now up to the international community to respond with urgency.
With the limelight on 'No Other Land,' there lies the opportunity for dialogue, reflection, and action on one of the world’s most entrenched conflicts. It is imperative for global citizens to engage with these narratives and advocate for change, fostering hope for futures where peace supersedes violence.