A powerful new film telling the tragic story of a young Palestinian girl, Hind Rajab, has set a historic record at the Venice Film Festival.
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, The Voice of Hind Rajab received a standing ovation lasting 23 minutes and 50 seconds. This makes it the longest ovation in the festival’s history, reflecting the emotional impact of the story on global audiences.
The film portrays the heartbreaking final moments of 5-year-old Hind, whose pleas for help during an Israeli attack earlier this year shocked the world. The Palestinian girl’s voice, calling out from under the rubble, became a haunting reminder of the suffering in Gaza.
Speaking after the screening, Ben Hania said, “This is not just a film. It is the voice buried under the rubble — the voice the world refused to hear.”
Critics have described the film as “the most important of the year,” with clips from the Venice screening going viral on social media. Many praised its ability to highlight the human cost of war and amplify silenced voices.
The project also drew international attention due to its high-profile executive producers, including Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix, Rooney Mara, Alfonso Cuarón, and Jonathan Glazer.
While some celebrated this global support, others criticized Hollywood for showing symbolic involvement rather than meaningful action.
The film has been chosen as Tunisia’s official entry for the Academy Awards. Analysts believe it could become a strong contender during the upcoming awards season.
Hind Rajab’s mother expressed hope that global attention on her daughter’s story might help end the ongoing violence in Gaza. However, reports confirm that the Israeli military continues its operations in the region.
The Voice of Hind Rajab not only honors the memory of a Palestinian girl but also calls for the world to listen to the voices of children affected by war.
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