In a world increasingly defined by tumult and strife, storytelling remains a powerful vehicle for expressing lived experiences from various cultural landscapes.
The upcoming ‘Azza …
Gaza’ Film Festival, set to run from December 19 to 24, at Zawya Cinema in Cairo, as well as in venues across Ramallah and Nairobi, is a poignant example of this.
This festival not only highlights the rich cinematic contributions of Sudanese and Palestinian filmmakers but also serves as a testament to the unbreakable human spirit.
By showcasing a curated selection of films from both regions, the festival reinforces themes of homeland, war, displacement, and above all, resilience.
The title ‘Azza,’ meaning home in Sudanese, encapsulates the profound cultural and emotional connections shared between the two communities, inviting audiences to reflect on their struggles and triumphs.
Key Takeaways
- The ‘Azza … Gaza’ Film Festival highlights the shared struggles of resilience in Sudan and Palestine.
- Featuring a diverse selection of films, the festival aims to foster cultural connections and reflections on war and displacement.
- The initiative underscores the significance of storytelling in expressing solidarity across generations and regions.
Film Program Overview
The ‘Azza …
Gaza’ film program, running from December 19 to 24, is a powerful cultural initiative taking place at Zawya Cinema in Cairo, alongside venues in Ramallah and Nairobi.
This event aims to showcase solidarity with the peoples of Sudan and Palestine, featuring a curated selection of films that span generations of talented filmmakers from both regions.
The term ‘Azza’, meaning home in the Sudanese dialect, poignantly encapsulates the common experiences of hardship, displacement, and resilience that unite these two communities.
Among the highlighted films, ‘Khartoum’ (2025) portrays the harrowing lives of five individuals caught in the chaos of war in Sudan, while the documentary ‘A World Not Ours’ (2012) offers a poignant glimpse into the generational struggles of a Palestinian family living in a Lebanese refugee camp.
Additionally, the award-winning short film ‘UPSHOT’ (2024), directed by Maha Haj, beautifully delves into a couple’s attempt to navigate personal loss.
This thoughtful program not only intends to entertain but also to encourage deep reflection on the themes of homeland and enduring spirit, making it a vital offering bolstered by renowned film organizations in the region.
Themes of Resilience and Solidarity
The ‘Azza …
Gaza’ film program is not merely a cinematic showcase; it serves as a platform for dialogue and understanding between the diverse narratives of Sudan and Palestine.
Through carefully curated films, the initiative delves into the shared experiences of two peoples navigating the complexities of war and displacement.
Each film selected for the program resonates deeply with the audience, inviting them to witness the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.
In addition to the powerful narratives of ‘Khartoum’, ‘A World Not Ours’, and ‘UPSHOT’, the inclusion of discussions and panels post-screening aims to enhance audience engagement, encouraging thoughtful conversations surrounding resilience and solidarity amid conflict.
By fostering cultural empathy through the medium of film, ‘Azza …
Gaza’ not only highlights the unique stories of each region but also reinforces the universal quest for home and belonging.