Palestinian filmmakers Tarzan Nasser and Arab Nasser’s poignant film “Once Upon a Time in Gaza” is set for a special screening as part of the CineMAD film series.
This event is part of CineMAD, a regional initiative by MAD Solutions that showcases celebrated Arab films from the international festival circuit across cinemas in the Middle East and North Africa, allowing viewers to enjoy award-winning films on the big screen.
Set against the backdrop of Gaza in 2007, the film tells the story of Yahya, a student who forms an unexpected friendship with Osama, a charming restaurant owner. Their relationship takes a risky turn as they delve into drug dealing while delivering falafel, ultimately becoming entangled with a corrupt police officer.
Critics have lauded the film for its intricate storytelling, with The National highlighting it as a moving tribute to Palestinian resilience. The Nasser brothers have made it their mission to offer an authentic portrayal of Gaza, challenging prevalent stereotypes and presenting a more humanised view of life in the city.
Having premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section, it won the Best Director award and has since been featured in over 20 international festivals across more than 10 countries, including Warsaw, Thessaloniki, São Paulo, Rome, and Toronto. The film also garnered significant accolades at the Cairo International Film Festival, including Best Director, Best Actor (Majd Eid), and Best Arab Feature Film.
An international co-production with contributions from France, Palestine, Germany, and Portugal, along with additional support from Qatar and Jordan, the film boasts a cast that includes Nader Abd Alhay, Ramzi Maqdisi, and Majd Eid. The screenplay was co-written by the Nasser brothers, Amer Nasser, and Marie Legrand, with Rani Massalha and Marie Legrand serving as producers.
