"The voice of Hind Rajab" is based on the real event when Hind Rajab was killed by Israeli forces during the invasion of Gaza. It is a film that makes the audience feel both sorrow and anger.
This is exactly what happened, says director Kaouther Ben Hania.
My goal is for justice to be served one day, for those responsible for the massacre to be brought to trial.
On January 29, 2024, six-year-old Hind Rajab and several of her relatives were traveling in a car, fleeing the city of Gaza. The car was shot at by the Israeli military and everyone except the girl died.
Asked for help
The rescue organization Red Crescent got hold of a phone number to one of the people in the car and called the number. Hind answered and pleaded for help. For several hours, the organization was in contact with the child, while trying to get the opportunity to send an ambulance.
When it finally succeeded, it was shot at and two aid workers were killed. Almost two weeks later, the shot-up cars and dead bodies were found.
The film takes place entirely in the Red Crescent's rescue station. Actors play the roles, but it is the real Hind Rajab's voice that is heard on recorded messages where she increasingly desperately asks for help.
It has been said that this is a way to exploit the dead. Such criticism is only meant to silence us. So I don't think I'll comment on it, says Kaouther Ben Hania when she and several of her actors meet the press - who meet them with a standing ovation
"It's enough now"
Actress Saja Kilani reads out a written message, in which she says, among other things: "is it not enough with killing and destruction now, this film is not a party political broadcast or fantasy, Hinds voice stands for all the children who have not been allowed to live, here a child begged for its life, how could we let it happen, it's enough now!"
There is no empathy in the world. The people in the film are trying to save lives. For me, this film is extremely important, her voice is the voice of all in Gaza who want help, says Kaouther Ben Hania.
Last week, a long line of film workers, including Brad Pitt, Alfonso Cuarón, Rooney Mara, Joaquin Phoenix, and Jonathan Glazer, stepped up as co-producers to help give the film attention in that way.
That they are backing the film is definitely significant. Art is an important tool when it comes to giving these people a voice, says Kaouther Ben Hania.
The film is participating in the competition in Venice and is a big favorite to win the Golden Lion on Saturday. When it will have its Swedish premiere is still unclear.
Age: 46 years.
Lives: In Tunisia.
Occupation: Director.
Previous films, selected: "Beauty and the Beast", "The man who sold his skin", "Four daughters".
Current: With "The voice of Hind Rajab" which is shown at the film festival in Venice.
