IDSFFK to open with Palestinian film From Ground Zero

The 17th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK), organised by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, will open with the Palestinian film From Ground Zero.

The film, a collective effort of 22 Palestinian directors, captures the scars and resilience of life in Gaza, suffering under Israel’s occupation and relentless attacks. It will be screened at Kairali Theatre on August 22, at 6 p.m., following the inaugural ceremony of the festival.

The anthology comprises documentaries, short films, and animations that bring forth untold stories behind the genocide unfolding in Gaza since October 2023. The collection has been curated by Rashid Masharawi, who won the UNESCO Award at the Cannes Film Festival in 1994 for his film Curfew.

Produced as part of The Masharawi Fund, a project that provides financial aid to Palestinian filmmakers in Gaza, From Ground Zero was officially selected for the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival.

Despite the harsh filming conditions, Gaza’s vibrant artistic scene shines through this collection, offering an intimate and powerful portrait of daily life and the enduring spirit of its people.

Each film in the anthology runs between three to six minutes. Alongside depictions of the hardships and challenges faced by the Palestinian people, these films also reflect rays of hope and resilience. From Ground Zero was Palestine’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards.

Originally scheduled to premiere at Cannes, the film was withdrawn at the last minute by the organisers for “political reasons.” In response, Rashid Masharawi arranged a protest screening of the film outside the festival venue.