Oscar-winning filmmaker Michael Moore has boarded the Palestinian documentary From Ground Zero as an executive producer.
The documentary film which has won multiple awards was recently shortlisted for the 97th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category.
From Ground Zero is a collection of short films by 22 Palestinian filmmakers living through war in present-day Gaza. Through a unique blend of animation, documentary, and fiction, these stories capture the steadfastness of the human spirit and enduring creativity that thrives even in the face of relentless devastation.
Michael Moore, known for his groundbreaking and thought-provoking documentaries, said “These Palestinian filmmakers have accomplished a cinematic miracle. They have made a brilliant film in the midst of what Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have now declared a genocide. The only weapons that Rashid and these 22 courageous Palestinian directors in Gaza have are their cameras and their creativity. No filmmaker, writer, or artist should ever have to tell the story of their own extermination. It’s an honor to stand in solidarity with them and help share their stories with the world.”
Director Rashid Masharawi expressed his gratitude and excitement, stating, “The team is both humbled and thrilled to be shortlisted. With Michael Moore’s involvement, we are even more empowered to portray the humanity and resilience of Palestinians, share their creativity with the world, and showcase the power of cinema as a force for justice and understanding.”
From Ground Zero will be released in U.S. theaters nationwide on January 3, 2025.
“Michael Moore’s passion for telling stories that challenge injustice aligns perfectly with our mission as a company. His expertise and commitment to social justice will be invaluable in helping us share these powerful, untold stories, and we are thrilled to have him join ‘From Ground Zero.'” said Hamza Ali, Co-Founder of Watermelon Pictures.