Alaa Damo

"From Ground Zero" is a compelling project that brings together 22 short films created by talented filmmakers from Gaza. Launched by Rashid Masharawi, a notable Palestinian filmmaker, the initiative emerged amid the backdrop of conflict, aiming to provide a platform for young artists to express themselves through their craft. Each film, ranging from 3 to 7 minutes, presents a unique perspective on the current reality in Gaza. The project captures the diverse experiences of life in the Palestinian enclave, including the challenges, tragedies, and moments of resilience faced by its people. With a mix of genres such as fiction, documentary, docu-fiction, animation, and experimental cinema, "From Ground Zero" showcases a rich tapestry of stories that reflect the sorrow, joy, and hope inherent in Gazan life.

Amid war, siege, and destruction, Palestinian filmmaker Alaa Damo lives the very experience he documents through his lens: bombardment, displacement, and a daily struggle for survival. Alaa is one of the filmmakers trapped in Gaza whose films have managed to reach the world, even as they continue inside the Strip their daily search for shelter, a piece of bread, a sip of water, and a cinematic shot that carries their voice beyond the blockade.

Palestinian filmmaker Alaa Damo, documents the events that took place over one day in Gaza to his friend Mosab Al Nadi, who survived three Israeli airstrikes and was buried under rubble, despite sheltering in so-called ‘safe zones’. 24 Hours is part of From Ground Zero, a collection of 22 short films made in Gaza initiated by Palestinian director Rashid Masharawi to tell the untold stories of the current war on film. From Ground Zero is the official submission of Palestine for the Best International Feature Film category of the 97th Academy Awards in 2025. Published On 10 Nov 2024