Jewish American filmmaker expresses solidarity with Palestinians at Venice Awards

Jewish American filmmaker Sarah Friedland expressed solidarity with Palestinians at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday (7 September), reports Yahoo News. 

"As a Jewish American artist working in a time-based medium, I must note, I'm accepting this award on the 336th day of Israel's genocide in Gaza and 76th year of occupation," she said as she accepted the Luigi de Laurentiis prize for best first film for Familiar Touch.

"I believe it is our responsibility as filmmakers to use the institutional platforms through which we work to redress Israel's impunity on the global stage. I stand in solidarity with The people of Palestine and their struggle for liberation," she added. 

Her film, which competed in the prestigious Horizons section, not only captivated audiences but also earned him the Best Director award. Kathleen Chalfant, who portrayed a woman adjusting to life in an assisted care home, won Best Actress for her powerful performance.

During her acceptance speech, Chalfant expressed her hope for an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, voicing a wish for peace, freedom, and justice for people on both sides. Her remarks resonated deeply, receiving a warm round of applause from the audience.

Palestinian filmmaker Scandar Copti, who won the Best Screenplay award for his film Happy Holidays, also addressed the conflict during his speech. His film, which explores the lives of four interconnected characters in Haifa, touches on themes of generational and cultural divides.

"I stand here deeply honored, yet profoundly affected by the difficult times we're living through over the past 11 months," Copti said. He reflected on the "ongoing genocide in Gaza" and the moral implications of oppression, themes explored in his film.