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Gaza Documentary ‘NAZA’ Set For Global Release Via Innovative Distribution Model That Will Involve Free Viewing Online Following Theatrical Outing
"NAZA," a documentary examining the systems behind Israeli military actions in Gaza, won a special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival and is set for global theatrical release across more than 56 territories beginning 28 September, followed by free online access via The Guardian's website. The film's release represents an innovative distribution model that bypasses traditional studio deals, with The Guardian and French sales company MK2 coordinating releases across multiple countries whilst actively seeking ways to make the film available in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories.
The documentary was filmed over three years on the rooftops of Tel Aviv by Israeli filmmakers Abraham and Szor and builds upon investigations published by The Guardian, the Israeli-Palestinian publication +972, and Hebrew-language outlet Local Call between 2023 and 2025. Theatrical distribution has been secured in territories including France, the UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Greece, Portugal, Poland, Lithuania, Romania, Bulgaria, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Thailand, Canada, Brazil, Turkey and Central America. In the United States, the film will begin screening exclusively at the IFC Center in New York on 30 September, whilst Italy will host a three-day event release on 500 screens between 28–30 September.
In short
- Gaza documentary "NAZA" premiering theatrically in 56+ territories from 28 September
- Will become free online via The Guardian after theatrical run
- Israeli filmmakers examine systems of Palestinian civilian killings
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A free online release after theatrical screenings could widen access to a documentary about Gaza and the systems behind Israeli military actions, including for viewers who cannot attend cinemas. Supporters may see the cross-border, independent model as a way to bring investigative reporting to a global audience while reducing reliance on conventional studio distribution.
The case against
A coordinated global release by prominent media and sales organisations may still give one documentary’s interpretation substantial reach before audiences can assess the underlying investigations for themselves. Critics could also question whether free online access, despite broadening availability, ensures meaningful access in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, where the organisers are still seeking distribution.
Explained simply
Gaza is a densely populated Palestinian territory on the Mediterranean, bordered by Israel and Egypt. Israeli military operations there have drawn intense international attention, and the documentary looks at the systems behind those operations.
The film was made by Israeli filmmakers Abraham and Szor over three years, and draws on reporting by The Guardian, the Israeli-Palestinian publication +972 and the Hebrew-language outlet Local Call. The Guardian and film distributor MK2 are arranging cinema screenings in many countries, with plans for free online access afterwards.
The release matters because it is using a distribution plan that does not rely on a traditional studio deal, and aims to reach audiences in dozens of territories. Its organisers are also seeking ways to make the film available in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories.
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