'Once upon a time in Gaza': A Palestinian tragicomedy
2007 marked a turning point for the Palestinian territories, with Hamas taking power after its victory in the 2006 legislative elections and Israel closing borders in retaliation. A land, air and sea blockade was imposed, echoing more recent events. The following year brought a war with heavy bombardments; scenes of homes destroyed by missiles already punctuated the film.
A recurring scene opens and closes Once Upon a Time in Gaza, which was screened in May at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received the Best Director award in the Un Certain Regard selection. On the street, a small crowd of civilians marches, honoring the memory of yet another victim of the deadly conflict – a litany for a people who endlessly mourn their dead. This narrative encirclement adds to the sense of confinement that dominates the film − even in through the camera work. From shots of fans to printing presses, the directing weaves a metaphor of an endless loop – above all, a loop of violence – from which the characters struggle to escape.
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