The Documentary: Life Is Beautiful: A Letter to Gaza tells the inspiring story of Mohamed Jabaly, a Palestinian filmmaker stranded in Norway, who fights for his rights with integrity and a smile, despite overwhelming obstacles. This award-winning documentary highlights his unwavering dedication to his hometown of Gaza, where he channels his creativity through limited resources and connections.
Awards and Recognition:
- IDFA Award for Best Directing – International Documentary Film Festival (2023)
- Best Film Award – Prague One World Film Festival (2024)
- Hera “Nuovi Talenti” Award – Biografilm Festival (2024)
- Grand Prix Gilda Vieira De Mello Award – International Film Festival and Forum on Civil Rights Geneva (2024)
- National Lottery Prize – Docville (2024)
Stuck in the harsh arctic conditions of Norway, filmmaker Mohamed Jabaly refuses to accept the limitations imposed by politics and bureaucracy. He continues to tell heartfelt stories from Gaza, despite being far from his family and with only limited support from friends. His motto, Life is Beautiful, fuels his passion to stay connected to his roots and creativity.
Life is Beautiful Details:
- Directed by: Mohamed Jabaly
- Written by: Mohamed Jabaly
- Produced by: Mohanad Yaqubi, Kristine Ann Skaret, Sarah Winge-Sørensen, Mohamed Elmongy, Mohamed Jabaly
- Starring: Mohamed Jabaly, Hermann Gruel, Martha Otte
- Language: Arabic, English, Norwegian
- Genre: Documentary
- Distributor: Watermelon Pictures
- Run Time: 97 minutes
Current Theater Listings:
- New York: Firehouse Cinema for Documentary Film
- Los Angeles: Laemmle’s Monica Film Center
- San Francisco: Roxie Theater
- Encino, CA: Laemmle’s Town Center 5
- Columbus, OH: Gateway Film Center
VOD/Digital Release: Available for digital rental and purchase on November 26, 2024.
