Oscar-Nominated Documentary Sheds Light on Palestinian Struggles
The documentary No Other Land has been nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, bringing international attention to the ongoing situation in Masafer Yatta, a region in the West Bank. The film, produced by Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers Basel Adra, Yuval Abraham, Rachel Szor, and Hamdan Ballal, delves deep into the lives of those affected by the Israeli occupation in this mountainous village.
Julius Pollux Rothlaender: The Composer’s Perspective
Julius Pollux Rothlaender, who composed the music for the film, emphasized the importance of the documentary’s message over its commercial success. “For me, the greatest joy was thinking about the hope that as many people as possible would watch the film and bring about change,” he remarked. Rothlaender, a resident of Iceland since 2015 and a member of the band BSÍ, has increasingly ventured into composing for films.
The Serendipitous Journey to No Other Land
The opportunity to work on No Other Land came about by chance for Rothlaender. The film’s creators, hailing from both Palestine and Israel, met through their mutual work on a left-leaning newspaper, blending activism with journalism. The project, which took four to five years to complete, became a collaborative effort to document the realities of life in Masafer Yatta.
Musical Innovation and the Filmmaking Process
Rothlaender, largely self-taught in music, approached the project with a unique perspective. “Often, I find that less music in films is better,” he explained, noting that the essence of the film’s music is already present in its visuals and characters. During his collaboration with the filmmakers in Berlin, Rothlaender shared his musical ideas, contributing to a project that was, for many involved, a new and exploratory endeavor.
Hope and Challenges Amidst Conflict
The film’s completion was fraught with challenges, particularly following a significant attack on October 7, which deeply affected all involved. Despite these hardships, the team pressed on, driven by the hope that their work could influence change in Masafer Yatta. Although the film has been showcased globally, the desired impact on the ground has yet to materialize, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by those in the region.
The Broader Impact and Recognition
Since its premiere at the Berlinale Film Festival in 2024, where it won Best Documentary, No Other Land has been recognized for its poignant storytelling. The Oscar nomination is viewed by Rothlaender as a significant opportunity to amplify the film’s reach. “It just so happens that the Oscars are one of the best opportunities to promote a film, so it’s great that it succeeded,” he stated. However, his primary hope remains that as many people as possible see the film, especially as conditions in the West Bank deteriorate.
A Call for Awareness and Change
Amidst a backdrop of increasing violence and evictions by the Israeli military in Masafer Yatta, No Other Land serves as a crucial narrative, urging global audiences to understand and engage with the realities faced by Palestinians. The documentary not only highlights the personal stories of its creators but also underscores the broader socio-political issues at play. As the world watches, the film stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in advocating for change and justice.