The Oscar win for “No Other Land” has sparked a wave of backlash against its Palestinian-Israeli filmmakers, with some critics accusing them of being “puppets” for their Israeli co-creator.
However, the filmmakers’ own stories reveal a different reality. The documentary tells the story of four filmmakers who collaborated on the film, despite the risks they faced. The film exposes the harsh realities of life under Israeli occupation in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
The Palestinian filmmaker, Basel Adra, is an activist from a village under constant threat from settlers. He spoke out against Israel’s conduct in the current war in Gaza during his acceptance speech at the Oscars. Meanwhile, his Israeli co-creator, Yuval Abraham, has faced death threats, harassment, and intimidation since the film’s win.
Despite this backlash, many are standing by “No Other Land” as a powerful tool for change. The filmmakers’ collaboration is seen as a testament to the power of co-resistance and partnership in the face of adversity.
The Israeli government’s policies aim to render Palestinians invisible and brand their allies as traitors. This stance has far-reaching consequences, affecting not just the Middle East but also communities worldwide.
As cultural organizers, Batrice and Lenkinski are highlighting the importance of art in bringing about change. They argue that “No Other Land” provides a glimpse into decades-long Palestinian experience, offering hope for a future where communities can come together to build from their differences rather than be divided by them.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/16/opinion/no-other-land-documentary-israel-gaza.html