Michael Moore to Produce ‘From Ground Zeo’ Oscar-Shortlisted Palestine Film

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As a lifelong activist and film enthusiast who has witnessed the power of cinema to ignite change and bring attention to marginalized voices, I am deeply moved by Michael Moore‘s decision to join as an executive producer for “From Ground Zero.” As someone who has dedicated my career to exposing injustice through compelling storytelling, I can appreciate the courage and resilience of the 22 Palestinian filmmakers who have bravely documented their lives in the midst of ongoing conflict.

The fact that this collection of short films has been shortlisted for an Academy Award is a testament to the power of their stories and the talent of these filmmakers. It’s heartening to see such powerful art emerge from a region where creativity and freedom are often stifled by war and oppression.

I can’t help but recall my own experiences working on documentaries like “Fahrenheit 9/11” and “Sicko,” which aimed to shed light on the injustices faced by ordinary people in America. In many ways, these Palestinian filmmakers are facing similar challenges – using their cameras as weapons against a powerful adversary that seeks to silence them.

The fact that the Cannes Film Festival initially pulled “From Ground Zero” from its lineup is disheartening, but I have faith that this film will find an audience and make an impact. I’m reminded of the old joke: “How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice!” In this case, it seems that these filmmakers have practiced their art in the most difficult of circumstances, and I can’t wait to see what they’ve created.

I hope that “From Ground Zero” not only lands a nomination at the 97th Academy Awards but also inspires more people around the world to take notice of the struggles faced by Palestinians and to stand in solidarity with them as they fight for their freedom and dignity. As a filmmaker, I know the power of our art to change hearts and minds, and I have no doubt that “From Ground Zero” will be a force for good in the world.

Renowned director Michael Moore is lending his influence to the Palestinian movie From Ground Zero, taking on the role of an executive producer. This film, composed of 22 short films by contemporary Palestinian filmmakers experiencing the ongoing conflict in Gaza today, presents a diverse array of stories drawn from real-life events. These shorts span from three to six minutes and employ various techniques such as documentary, animation, and avant-garde filmmaking, thus painting a vivid picture that encompasses the sorrow, joy, and hope prevalent within the daily life in Gaza. By showcasing these stories, it offers an evocative glimpse into the delicate nature of life and the indomitable spirit of love amidst destruction.

Watermelon Pictures is delighted to announce that Michael Moore, renowned director of provocative documentaries like Fahrenheit 9/11, Sicko, and Bowling for Columbine, has agreed to serve as Executive Producer on From Ground Zero. This highly anticipated film will hit theaters on January 3, 2025, and is nominated for Best International Feature Film at the upcoming Academy Awards. Hamza Ali, co-founder of Watermelon Pictures, expressed his excitement about Moore’s involvement, stating, “Michael Moore’s dedication to telling stories that expose injustice resonates deeply with our company’s values. His extensive experience and commitment to social justice will be a tremendous asset as we bring these compelling, untold tales to light, and we are ecstatic to welcome him to From Ground Zero.

Moore spoke about joining the project in the following statement:

These Palestinian filmmakers have pulled off a remarkable cinematic feat. Amidst what Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch now classify as genocide, they’ve crafted a masterpiece. With cameras and creativity as their only weapons, Rashid and these 22 bold directors from Gaza are telling their stories. It’s tragic that artists like them must narrate their own destruction. It’s an honor to join forces with them and assist in bringing their powerful tales to the global audience.

The producer of From Ground Zero, renowned director Rashid Masharawi, conveyed his appreciation upon Michael Moore joining the production team. He also mentioned that being nominated for an Academy Award is an honor for the film. He stated, “Our team feels both humbled and excited to be among the nominees. With Michael Moore’s participation, we feel more empowered to depict the strength and resilience of Palestinians, expose their artistic talents globally, and demonstrate the influence of cinema as a tool for justice and mutual comprehension.

‘From Ground Zero’s Rough Road to the Big Screen

Originally slated to debut at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, “Ground Zero” was eventually withdrawn by festival organizers in an effort to avoid political controversies. This decision led to widespread anger. In response, producer Rashid Masharawi erected a tent similar to those used by displaced Palestinians since the start of the Gaza conflict, displaying a Palestinian flag at its entrance, and held a protest screening right outside the festival. Speaking to “+972 Magazine“, Masharawi stated, “‘I will not let the festival erase our existence and silence our voices,’ he said. ‘So, with the support of many friends and supporters, I chose to make them acknowledge us and listen to us.’

The movie titled “From Ground Zero” first debuted on July 5, 2024, at the 5th Amman International Film Festival, and later made its North American premiere on Sept. 9, 2024, at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Since then, it has been chosen as one of the fifteen films being considered for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, representing Palestine’s submission. Interestingly, only two Palestinian films have previously been nominated in this category: “2005’s Paradise Now” and “2013’s Omar“, both directed by Hany Abu-Assad. Notably, these films too were not without their share of controversy.

As a film enthusiast with a deep interest in cinema that reflects real-world issues and challenges, I have followed the journey of Palestinian films at the Academy Awards with great anticipation. Having lived and worked in the Middle East for several years, I am acutely aware of the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The selection of “Paradise Now” as Palestine’s submission to the 84th Academy Awards was a significant moment, marking a step forward in the recognition of Palestinian cinema on the international stage. However, the controversy that ensued, with protests from pro-Israeli groups in the United States, served as a stark reminder of the political tensions that continue to overshadow this region.

Designating “Paradise Now” as a submission from the Palestinian Authority was a pragmatic move by the Academy, but it was met with criticism from director Hany Abu-Assad. As a filmmaker myself, I can understand his frustration, as such decisions can have significant implications for the creative freedom of artists in conflict zones.

Now, as we approach the 97th Academy Awards, “From Ground Zero” has the potential to make history by becoming the first Palestinian film to be nominated and potentially win an Oscar. As a film that delves into the experiences of Palestinians living in Gaza, I believe it has the power to resonate with audiences worldwide and bring attention to the ongoing struggles faced by the people of Palestine.

I eagerly await the outcome of the 97th Academy Awards and hope that “From Ground Zero” will serve as a beacon of hope for Palestinian cinema and help shed light on the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

From Ground Zero opens in theaters on Jan. 3, 2025.

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2024-12-31 00:32