Gazan Tales

The film follows the different worlds of its four characters trying to find their way of life within the Gaza Strip.

  • Mahmoud Ahmed
    Director
  • Mahmoud Nabil Ahmed
    Writer
  • Waseem Khairy Al Sissi
    Producer
  • Hamdy Al Ghora
    Key Cast
    "Abu Islam"
  • Abd El Aziz Sbih
    Key Cast
    "The Grand Father"
  • Youssef Jad Al Haq
    Key Cast
    "Seaman "
  • Fadl Srour
    Key Cast
    "The Music Teacher"
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    غزة التي تطل على البحر
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Feature
  • Genres:
    Drama
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 20 minutes 3 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    August 14, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    700 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Palestine, State of
  • Country of Filming:
    Palestine, State of
  • Language:
    Arabic
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Mahmoud Ahmed

Mahmoud Ahmed, a Palestinian filmmaker from Gaza, embarked on a humble path in cinema. Starting at the esteemed Higher Institute of Multimedia Arts of Manuobah (ISAMM), he pursued a bachelor's in directing and scenario writing, followed by a master's in film editing at the Higher School of Audiovisual and Cinema OF Gammarth (ESAC). His years in Tunisia transformed him, nurturing his creative roots through cinematic exploration.

Within Tunisia's vibrant cultural tapestry, Ahmed quietly honed his storytelling prowess. This dedication bore fruit with two impactful short films. "The War Inside Us," a poignant documentary, earned recognition in the esteemed "Ciné Par’Court" program, a collaboration between the National Center for Cinema and Image of Tunisia and Goethe-Institut Tunis. This acknowledgment became a stepping stone, enabling his stories to reach a broader audience.

"Matchstick," his second short film, marked the pinnacle of his studies, reflecting his growth as a filmmaker. Amidst the complexities of his region, Ahmed's passion for storytelling emerged as a bridge between cultures, allowing his unique voice to transcend borders.

With unyielding dedication, Mahmoud Ahmed's cinematic journey continues to evolve. His tales resonate with authenticity, inspiring and connecting diverse audiences. Additionally, his new film "Gazan Tales" stands as a testament to his collaborative spirit—a product of a filmmaking workshop he led in Gaza, supported by his friends in Tunisia. Together, they named the workshop "From Gaza to the World." Each project, approached with humility and heart, solidifies his place in the global cinematic landscape, affirming the universal power of storytelling to bind humanity.

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Director Statement

Director's Statement for "Gazan Tales"

"Gazan Tales" is an exploration of the profound connection that weaves between the land of Gaza and the intricate narratives residing within it. This cinematic endeavor emerges as a product of a collaborative workshop conducted amidst the very heart of Gaza Strip. Within this workshop, passionate individuals embarked on their maiden journey to share fragments of their reality, as seen through their lens.

It's essential to acknowledge that during our workshop's genesis, these aspiring filmmakers endured over a week of relentless bombardment. Yet, rather than capturing destruction and despair, they chose to amplify life's enduring spirit.

Among the stories woven into this tapestry, we find Abu Hisham, who opened his ground-floor space for music lessons, embracing the power of art to transcend adversity. As time inches forward, this space will soon close, echoing the transient nature of existence.

In the presence of Abu Islam, we uncover a life interwoven with the majestic horses he tends and the tranquil moments he orchestrates along Gaza's shores. His relationship with the sea embodies the essence of his being.

Abdel Aziz, a grandfather in his eighties, traverses the landscape of his scattered properties. Each day, he finds solace in the simple joys of life, sharing playful exchanges with his wife—a testament to the enduring bonds of love.

Then there is Abu Zaher, a venerable figure whose family calls a humble hut overlooking Gaza's seashore their home. His connection to the sea mirrors the profound ties between humanity and its environment.

"Gazan Tales" serves as an ode to the resilience of Gaza and its people. The workshop's participants refused to be defined by adversity, choosing instead to focus on the stories that speak to their shared humanity. In this film, we aim to echo their voices and bring forth the stories that transcend conflict, revealing the strength that thrives amidst challenges. Through our lens, we humbly aim to spotlight the profound and unbreakable bonds that unite the land and its inhabitants, demonstrating that even amidst chaos, life and stories persist.