Palestinian filmmakers Nasser brothers win Cannes ‘Best Director' award
Palestinian filmmakers Tarzan and Arab Nasser have clinched the Best Director award in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival for their latest work, Once Upon a Time in Gaza. The film had its world premiere at the festival to thunderous applause, captivating both audiences and critics with its blend of comedy and drama.
The Nasser brothers, who have long been prominent voices in Palestinian cinema, expressed deep gratitude for the recognition and the international support they received throughout the film's journey. This latest win adds to their growing legacy at Cannes, where their short Condom Lead competed in the Main Competition and their debut feature Dégradé premiered in Critics' Week. Their second feature, Gaza Mon Amour, previously premiered at the Venice International Film Festival and was Palestine's official submission to the 2021 Academy Awards.
Critics have responded enthusiastically to Once Upon a Time in Gaza, praising its artistry and relevance. Clotilde Chinnici of Loud and Clear Reviews called it 'necessary and remarkable,' highlighting its powerful political undertones and stunning visuals. Jonathan Romney of Screen Daily described it as 'taut' and 'succinct,' predicting the film would garner significant attention after its Cannes debut. Jordan Mintzer of The Hollywood Reporter noted its emotional depth, calling it 'small-scale yet broad in its implications,' particularly in the context of ongoing events in Gaza.
Set against the backdrop of the besieged enclave, the film follows Yahya, a young student who befriends Osama, a kind-hearted restaurant owner. Together, they begin selling drugs while delivering falafel, only to encounter a corrupt and egotistical police officer. The story provides a deeply human portrait of life in Gaza, blending humor and harsh reality in a way that resonates far beyond its setting.
Once Upon a Time in Gaza is an international co-production between France, Palestine, Germany and Portugal, with additional support from Qatar and Jordan. The cast includes Nader Abd Alhay—known for Farah on Netflix—Ramzi Maqdisi (Ghost Hunting) and Majd Eid (Holy Spider), with cinematography by Christophe Graillot and editing by Sophie Reine.
The screenplay was co-written by the Nasser brothers alongside Amer Nasser and Marie Legrand. It was produced by Rani Massalha and Marie Legrand of Les Films du Tambour and Muriel Merlin of Lyly Productions, with a broad base of co-producers from around the globe including Rise Studios, Made in Palestine Project, Red Balloon Film, Riva Filmproduktion, and Ukbar Filmes, among others.
Distribution is handled by MAD Distribution for the Arab world, The Party Film Sales for international markets, and Dulac Distribution for France. The project also benefited from the backing of major cultural institutions, including Aide aux Cinémas du Monde – CNC, Eurimages, the Doha Film Institute, and the Royal Film Commission's Jordan Film Fund.
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