The Voice of Hind Rajab Receives Record 23-Minute Standing Ovation at Venice

Kaouther Ben Hania’s film "The Voice of Hind Rajab," made its debut at the Venice Film Festival this Wednesday, becoming the first film in the festival's history to receive a 23-minute standing ovation. As the lights came on, the audience chanted "free Palestine." 

The film tells the tragic tale of Hind Rajab, a six-year-old girl who was killed in January 2024 by Israeli fire in Gaza.  She was on her way with her family when Israeli troops set fire to their automobile. As she was being rescued, she was able to call the Palestinian Red Crescent for help before she, and two paramedics who were attempting to rescue her, were also killed. The film includes recordings from her final phone call. 

The premiere brought many audience members to tears, with actor Motaz Malhees holding up a Palestinian flag, and the cast displaying a photo incorporating her face.

The film's executive producers include well-known Hollywood actors Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix, Rooney Mara, Alfonso Cuarón, and Jonathan Glazer.  Phoenix went to the Venice premiere with Mara.

Director Ben Hania stated that the film aims to give a voice to victims often reduced to numbers. Actress Saja Kilani, who plays Hind, described it as “anchored in truth” and representing the voice of every child caught in the turmoil of the conflict.

Tunisia is submitting "The Voice of Hind Rajab" for Best International Feature for the Oscars. Hind’s mother, Wissam Hamada, hopes the film raises awareness and helps put an end to the war in Gaza.