19th Cinema Verite Unveils Exciting Line-Up for Gaza Competition Section!

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.

Similar Posts

  • Exciting Highlights from Day Three of the 2025 Asian Youth Games!

    The Iranian sports caravan, “Ambassadors of Hope,” is making a strong impact at the third Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, featuring 236 athletes competing in 22 disciplines. This initiative showcases Iran’s commitment to youth athletics, promoting sportsmanship and cultural exchange. The event serves as a vital platform for young athletes to shine internationally and inspire future generations. Beyond competition, the caravan emphasizes values like teamwork and fair play, fostering a sense of pride and unity. As these young competitors share their stories of determination, they embody the spirit of perseverance, aiming to leave a lasting legacy in sports.

  • Shiraz Celebrates ‘Lady Moon’ with Leader’s Special Commendation

    During Iran’s Book Week, Vahdat Hall in Shiraz hosted the unveiling of “Lady Moon,” a book by Sajedeh Taqizadeh, honored by Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. This event commemorated the martyrdom anniversary of Lady Fatemeh Zahra (SA) and celebrated themes of jihad and resistance. “Lady Moon” narrates the life of Khanom-Naz Alinejad, wife of Martyr Shir Ali Soltani, illustrating her sacrifices and resilience. The book, structured in three chapters, intertwines Alinejad’s story with that of another woman from Paris, enriching its narrative depth. Khamenei praised the author for capturing profound themes of love and faith, emphasizing the importance of such literary works.

  • Urgent Warning: UN Faces Irrelevance Over Gaza Crisis, Says Expert Alfred de Zayas

    As the UN General Assembly prepares for its 80th session on September 9, 2025, its credibility is under scrutiny due to the ongoing Gaza conflict. Professor Alfred de Zayas, a former UN expert, argues that Israel’s actions violate international law, specifically the Geneva and Genocide Conventions, and highlights Western complicity. He calls for urgent adoption of the “Uniting for Peace” resolution to address the genocide against Palestinians and hold Israel accountable. De Zayas emphasizes that without decisive action, the UN risks losing authority, while independent civil society efforts are essential for advocating Palestinian rights and restoring integrity in human rights advocacy.

  • UN Rights Chief Urges Urgent Stop to Israel’s Gaza Takeover Plans

    UN human rights chief Volker Turk has called for an immediate halt to Israel’s plans for a complete takeover of Gaza, emphasizing the need for adherence to international law and humanitarian standards. His statement follows a ruling from the International Court of Justice declaring Israel’s occupation unlawful and affirming Palestinian rights to self-determination. Turk urged Israel to allow unhindered humanitarian aid into Gaza and demanded the release of captives by both Israeli and Palestinian groups. The backdrop of these appeals is Israel’s recent military occupation plan, which critics warn could worsen the humanitarian crisis in the region. The international community is urged to prioritize peace negotiations and human rights.

  • Sharm el-Sheikh Summit: A Fragile Hope for Lasting Peace in Gaza

    On October 13, leaders convened in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to address the ongoing crisis in the region, agreeing on a ceasefire and reconstruction plans. However, concerns arose over the framework’s reliance on demilitarization without enforcement, the absence of key parties like Israel and Hamas, and deferred accountability for Palestinians. Following the summit, Israeli forces violated the ceasefire, raising fears of renewed violence. The agreement, criticized as prioritizing immediate relief over long-term justice, risks becoming a mere pause in hostilities rather than a pathway to genuine peace, as critical issues like occupation and accountability remain unaddressed.

  • Ali Mirfattah’s ‘Immortal Name of Homeland’: Stunning Wall Murals in Tehran Honor Martyrs

    In response to the recent conflict between Iran and Israel, graffiti artist Seyyed Ali Mirfattah has launched a stencil art collection titled “Immortal Name of Homeland” in Tehran. This initiative honors the martyrs of the Zionist attacks, transforming the city’s walls into a tribute to resilience and national pride. Mirfattah, who has painted 17 life-sized images of martyrs, aims to create a dedicated memorial wall with support from the Tehran Beautification Organization. His work has received positive public feedback, highlighting the significance of murals in enhancing urban aesthetics and fostering unity among citizens.