The documentary "No Other Land" won the prestigious Oscar for Best Documentary Feature in 2025. Created by a Palestinian-Israeli collective, the film highlights the forced displacement of Palestinians in Masafer Yatta, located in the occupied West Bank. This powerful narrative, filmed over four years from 2019 to 2023, has resonated with audiences worldwide.
The film's co-directors, Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham, accepted the award with a message of unity and hope. They emphasized that the collaboration between Palestinians and Israelis creates a stronger, more impactful voice. Despite its success, "No Other Land" faced challenges with distribution, premiering at the Berlin Film Festival last year and winning the Berlinale Documentary Award, but lacking a formal theatrical release in the United States due to political obstacles. Nonetheless, it reached audiences through independent showings in nearly 100 theaters.
Yuval Abraham expressed concerns about the political hurdles that hindered the film's distribution. He believes that these barriers reflect ongoing tensions and serve as a reminder of the harsh realities faced by Palestinians. The film is a testament to their struggles and resilience amid adversity.
Basel Adra, who recently became a father, shared his hopes for a better future for his daughter. Living under military laws that he cannot control, he aspires for a world where such destruction ends. Adra's personal experiences add a poignant layer to the documentary's narrative.
The filmmakers' voices join a chorus of calls for peace and justice. The recent conflict has seen over 48,200 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces since the Hamas attack on October 7, with two million forcibly displaced. These staggering figures underscore the urgency of addressing the ongoing violence.
“Israeli hostages brutally taken in the crime of October 7 which must be freed.” – Co-director Yuval Abraham
This quote from Abraham highlights the complex realities faced by those on both sides of the conflict. The film serves as a reminder of the human cost of prolonged strife and the need for reconciliation.