19th Cinema Verite Unveils Exciting Line-Up for Gaza Competition Section!
The 19th Iran International Documentary Film Festival, known as “Cinema Verite,” has unveiled its exciting line-up for the Gaza Competition section. This prestigious festival aims to spotlight the realities of life in Gaza through powerful documentary storytelling. Scheduled to take place from December 10 to 17 in Tehran, this year’s edition promises to offer an engaging selection of films that reflect the resilience and struggles of the people in Gaza.
According to the festival’s announcement, a total of 10 remarkable foreign documentaries will be showcased in this section. Here’s a look at the featured films:
- “Gaza: A Stolen Childhood” directed by Moamen Ghonem (2024, joint production of Palestine and Qatar)
- “I Will Remember You” by Mohamed Rida Gueznai (2025)
- “WAED” by Houssein Ali Kanso
- “Palestine Lentils” by Hamdi Khalil Elhusseini and Samar Taher Lulu
- “$17.74” by Justin Mashouf
- “Still Playing” by Mohamed Mesbah
- “A Man Fell” by Giovanni C. Lorusso
- “Hind Under Siege” by Naji Fawwaz Mustafa
- “Notes on an Exile” by Gustavo Castro
- “Free Words: A Poet from Gaza” by Abdullah Harun Ilhan
Among these, “Gaza: A Stolen Childhood” is particularly poignant. This compelling documentary follows the lives of three children—Mohammad, Farah, and Sabri—who are among the countless young souls affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza since October 7, 2023. Over the span of nearly a year, the director closely observes their experiences, capturing their suffering and resilience, while seeking to answer the critical question: “What is war like in the eyes of Gaza’s young children?”
Another notable film, “I Will Remember You,” produced in 2025, tells the story of a young Moroccan director who discovers an audio tape recorded by his grandfather during the Arab-Israeli war of October 1973. This discovery leads him on a journey through the past, where he encounters a group of ex-soldiers, often overlooked and marginalized by society. As he uncovers his grandfather’s military history, the film invites viewers to reflect on the profound impact of war on familial ties and national identity.
The documentary “Palestine Lentils” (2024) highlights the inspiring story of a Palestinian chef who uses his culinary skills as a form of resistance against the famine caused by the ongoing war in Gaza. This film emphasizes the spirit of resilience and hope that persists within the community, showcasing how food can serve as a means of survival and cultural preservation.
“$17.74” (2024), a U.S. production, illustrates how a small act of kindness—a $17.74 donation to Gaza—can ignite a global movement. This short documentary powerfully demonstrates that even the smallest gestures can resonate widely and inspire hope in times of despair.
Another film, “Still Playing” (2025, joint production of France and Palestine), is inspired by real-life events. It follows young video game creators who strive to express their unique voices within the gaming industry, shedding light on their experiences and aspirations in a challenging landscape.
“A Man Fell” (2024, Italy and Lebanon) tells the story of the Gaza Building, a historic PLO hospital that stands as a symbol of Palestinian endurance in the refugee camp of Sabra, located north of Shatila camp. This documentary delves into the historical significance of the site and its relevance to the Palestinian identity.
In “Notes on an Exile” (2025, Brazil and Palestine), the filmmaker revisits footage of a Brazilian-Palestinian family in the West Bank taken in 2018. Initially intended to explore coexistence in an occupied land, the film evolves into a stark commentary on colonization, apartheid, and the ongoing violence faced by Palestinians. This transformation highlights the cyclical nature of conflict and the urgent need for awareness and action.
Lastly, “Free Words: A Poet from Gaza” (2024, Egypt and Turkey) focuses on the life of Palestinian poet Mosab Abo Touha. The documentary explores his experiences living under oppression and emphasizes the universal struggle for freedom of expression. It showcases how art and poetry can serve as powerful tools for change, fostering hope and resilience in a fragmented world.
The Iran International Documentary Film Festival, or “Cinema Vérité,” is organized by the Documentary & Experimental Film Center (DEFC). This festival aims to bridge the gap between reality and truth through the medium of documentary film, providing a platform for filmmakers to present their perspectives and stories.
With such a diverse and impactful selection of films, the Gaza Competition section of the 19th Cinema Vérité is set to captivate audiences and provoke meaningful discussions about the realities of life in Gaza and the broader implications of conflict.
