The Guardian and mk2 Films have announced the global release of NAZA, a documentary that explores the impact of Israeli military operations on Palestinian civilians, following its accolade at the Venice Film Festival.
The Guardian and mk2 Films jointly announced on September 28, 2023, that NAZA, a documentary produced by The Guardian, will be released in over 50 territories worldwide. This announcement follows the film’s recognition at the Venice Film Festival, where it was awarded the Special Jury Prize earlier in the month.
The film, which had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival on September 10, has secured theatrical distribution in 56 territories, indicating significant global interest. Following its theatrical run, NAZA will be made available for free to global audiences on The Guardian’s website in late November, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to independent journalism.
North American Premiere and Theatrical Rollout
NAZA is set to have its North American premiere on September 26 at the New York Film Festival, with a theatrical opening in U.S. theaters on September 30 at the IFC Center in New York City. The film is scheduled to expand to additional markets, including Los Angeles, on October 9, with a national rollout to follow in the subsequent weeks.
International Distribution
Beyond the United States, NAZA has obtained theatrical distributors in several countries, including France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Australia, among others. This extensive distribution network highlights the documentary’s potential to reach a diverse international audience. The film has also been offered to distributors in Israel, with plans to explore additional avenues for screening in the occupied Palestinian territories.
Content and Context of NAZA
Filmed predominantly at night on the rooftops of Tel Aviv, NAZA addresses the systematic impact of Israeli military operations on Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The title NAZA is derived from a military acronym used within Israeli intelligence to refer to the anticipated number of civilian casualties in airstrikes. This documentary aims to shed light on the operational frameworks behind these casualties, contributing to the broader discourse surrounding military ethics and accountability.
NAZA is directed by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, both of whom are also co-directors of the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land (2024). The film is produced by The Guardian in collaboration with James Wilson of JW Films, and executive produced by acclaimed filmmaker Jonathan Glazer, known for his work in critically acclaimed cinema.
Investigative Foundations
The documentary builds upon a series of investigative reports published by The Guardian, as well as collaborations with other outlets such as +972 Magazine and Local Call. These investigations have unveiled critical insights into Israel’s military practices, including AI-driven targeting methods and surveillance systems that monitor Palestinian communications. This investigative journalism has attracted significant attention, leading to discussions on international platforms regarding the implications of military actions in conflict zones.
Directors’ Statement
In a joint statement, directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor expressed their commitment to the film’s subject matter, stating, “We made this film out of a sense of obligation to use our position as Israelis to examine the systems behind the mass killing of Palestinian civilians for which our country is responsible.” They acknowledged the challenges posed by threats from the Israeli government and affirmed their determination to distribute the film globally.
Producer’s Insights
Harry Davies, a Guardian investigations correspondent and producer of NAZA, highlighted the film’s foundation in rigorous journalism, noting that it transcends traditional documentary storytelling to engage viewers with pressing moral and ethical questions. He remarked on the audience’s initial response, indicating a deep engagement with the film’s themes.
The release of NAZA marks a significant moment in contemporary documentary filmmaking, offering a platform for urgent dialogue regarding military ethics and civilian protection in conflict zones. The Guardian’s commitment to making the film accessible to a broader audience aligns with its mission to provide fearless and independent journalism.
About NAZA’s Creative Team
Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor are recognized for their contributions to filmmaking and investigative journalism, with a focus on socially relevant themes. James Wilson and Jonathan Glazer bring a wealth of experience and credibility to the project, reinforcing the film’s artistic and journalistic integrity.
About The Guardian Documentaries and mk2 Films
The Guardian is a global news organization dedicated to independent journalism, while mk2 Films, founded in Paris in 1974, is known for its commitment to politically and artistically engaged storytelling. Both organizations are recognized for their contributions to critical cinema and documentary filmmaking, further enhancing the profile of NAZA.
