Michael Moore Boards Palestine’s Oscar Entry ‘From Ground Zero’ as Exec Producer

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As a long-time fan of Michael Moore‘s fearless and thought-provoking documentaries, I can’t help but feel inspired by his latest venture as executive producer of “From Ground Zero.” Moore’s commitment to shedding light on overlooked stories and giving voice to the voiceless is truly admirable.

His decision to join this project, which brings together 22 courageous Palestinian filmmakers amidst the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, speaks volumes about his unwavering dedication to truth and justice. The fact that these films were completed under such challenging circumstances makes their accomplishment all the more remarkable.

Moore’s involvement in this project is a testament to his belief that cinema can be a powerful force for change, and I couldn’t agree more. As he so eloquently put it, “No filmmaker, writer or artist should ever have to tell the story of their own extermination.”

On a lighter note, I can’t help but wonder if Moore will manage to bring home another Oscar for this groundbreaking anthology. After all, he’s got quite a knack for it! In fact, I’d go as far as saying that if the Academy doesn’t recognize “From Ground Zero,” they might just have to rename the award “The Michael Moore”!

Michael Moore has taken up the role of executive producer for Palestine’s Oscar submission titled “From Ground Zero“, which is set to hit theaters on January 3rd, distributed by Watermelon Pictures.

The selected project, nominated for the upcoming Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category, comprises 22 movies produced by Palestinian filmmakers amidst the persistent Israel-Gaza conflict.

As an admirer, I’m simply astounded by these Palestinian filmmakers. Against the backdrop of a situation now labeled as genocide by both Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, they have miraculously crafted a masterpiece on the silver screen.

The collection of documentaries, fictional works, and animated films was primarily driven by Rashid Masharawi, a Palestinian director born in Gaza, along with his Masharawi Fund, which supports local movies and filmmakers.

Rashid and these 22 brave Palestinian directors in Gaza possess only cameras and creativity as their tools. It’s unfortunate that filmmakers, writers, or artists must portray their own destruction. It’s a privilege to support them and assist in spreading their narratives across the globe,” Moore stated.

Renowned for his documentaries and distinctive narrative style, Michael Moore is best known for his Academy Award-winning film “Bowling for Columbine”, as well as “Fahrenheit 9/11” which won the Cannes Palme d’Or, and “Sicko”, a documentary about the U.S. healthcare system.

The collection of films titled “From Ground Zero” features the works of several artists: Wissam Moussa, Nidal Damo, Ahmed Hassouna, Alaa Ayoub, Karim Satoum, Bashar Al Babisi, Khamis Masharawi, Nida’A Abu Hasna, Tamer Nijim, Ahmed Al Danaf, Rima Mahmoud, Muhammad Al Sharif, Basil El Maqousi, Mustafa Al Nabih, Rabab Khamis, Mustafa Kulab, Alaa Damo, Hana Eleiwa, Mahdi Kreirah, Aws Al Banna, Islam Al Zeriei, and Etimad Washah.

Director Masharawi expressed gratitude towards Michael Moore for supporting their Oscar campaign. In his own words, he stated that being shortlisted is an honor that leaves the team both humbled and excited. With Michael Moore’s involvement, they feel more confident in portraying the humanity and resilience of Palestinians, sharing their creativity globally, and demonstrating how cinema can serve as a tool for justice and mutual understanding.

Variety was the first to report on Michael Moore boarding the From Ground Zero film.

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2024-12-30 20:25