The press conference in Venice for The Voice of Hind Rajab, the latest feature from Kaouther Ben Hania, opened with a deeply emotional moment. The filmmaker and her cast were greeted by a one-minute standing ovation, followed by a passionate speech from actress Saja Kilani, who spoke on behalf of the entire crew.
Kilani’s words resonated powerfully: “Enough of the mass killing, the starvation, the dehumanization, the destruction, and the ongoing occupation.” She emphasized that this is not a film of fantasy but a story anchored in truth, carrying the pain of thousands of children in Gaza. She added: “Let Hind Rajab’s voice echo around the world. Let it remind you of the silence that has been built around Gaza.”
The Story of Hind Rajab
The Voice of Hind Rajab tells the tragic story of a young Palestinian girl, Hind Rajab, who was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza last year alongside six of her family members. Their vehicle, fleeing Gaza City, was shelled, killing her uncle, aunt, and cousins. Hind initially survived with another cousin and contacted the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) for help. However, when paramedics reached the car, they too were killed, sparking outrage and global protests.
One of the most notable demonstrations occurred at Columbia University, where students renamed Hamilton Hall as Hind’s Hall, symbolizing international solidarity with Gaza’s children.
Director’s Motivation and Support
Director Kaouther Ben Hania explained that her motivation came from anger and helplessness, alongside the support of Hind’s mother, family, and Red Cross workers—whom she described as the true heroes. The film was produced under Mime Films and Tanit Films, with additional support from RaeFilm Studios and JW Films Production.
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Adding to its global resonance, Hollywood figures like Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix, Rooney Mara, Alfonso Cuarón, and Jonathan Glazer have joined as executive producers. Their involvement signals a shifting narrative about Gaza in international cinema and media.
A Voice for Palestine on the Global Stage
The film’s selection as Tunisia’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards further amplifies its global impact. For Ben Hania, the film proves that cinema and art are essential tools to fight dehumanization and to give victims a voice and identity in the world’s consciousness.
The Voice of Hind Rajab is not just a film; it is a testimony—a call for justice, remembrance, and humanity.
