A film inspired by the desperate plea of a 6-year-old girl trapped in a bullet-riddled car in Gaza City has premiered at the Venice Film Festival. “The Voice of Hind Rajab” is a documentary-style film that tells the story of Hind Rajab, who was killed in January 2024, along with five family members and two medics, after contact was lost with the first ambulance that responded to the scene.
The film’s director, Kaouther Ben Hania, was moved by the audio of Hind’s voice, which was widely shared on social media, and felt compelled to tell her story. Ben Hania used the real audio of Hind’s call, while actors portrayed the first responders in the film. The movie is set entirely inside the dispatch center of the Palestine Red Crescent Society rescue service, where the urgency and desperation of the situation are palpable.
The incident occurred during the Israel-Hamas war, which has resulted in the deaths of over 63,000 Palestinians, according to the Health Ministry. The conflict began in October 2023, when Hamas-led militants abducted 251 hostages and killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The war has had a devastating impact on the people of Gaza, with many still trapped in the region.
Ben Hania’s film is a powerful tribute to Hind’s memory and a testament to the human cost of the conflict. The director chose not to show the graphic images of the car and its occupants, instead focusing on the emotional and psychological impact of the event on the rescue workers. The film has already garnered attention and support from high-profile figures, including Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix, and Alfonso Cuarón, who have joined as executive producers.
“The Voice of Hind Rajab” is expected to be a contender in the upcoming awards season, with Tunisia submitting it as its candidate for best international feature at the Oscars. Ben Hania has previously been nominated for two Oscars, for best documentary and best international feature. The film’s premiere at the Venice Film Festival has sparked important discussions about the conflict in Gaza and the need for greater awareness and understanding of the situation.
As the film prepares for wider release, Ben Hania hopes that it will be seen by audiences around the world, raising awareness about the human cost of the conflict and the importance of finding a peaceful resolution. With its powerful and emotional storytelling, “The Voice of Hind Rajab” is a film that will leave a lasting impact on those who see it.