Palestinian Photojournalist Fatma Hassona, Killed in Israeli Missile Strike, Remembered at Emotional Cannes Premiere of ‘Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk’

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At the world debut of Sepideh Farsi’s documentary titled “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk” in Cannes, it transformed into a heartfelt homage to its central figure, Fatma Hassona, who tragically lost her life due to an Israeli missile strike only a few weeks prior.

As I stood before you, teary-eyed and filled with emotion, I unveiled a captivating cinematic journey that holds a special place in my heart – a tribute to the remarkable Hassona. Following the screening, I proudly displayed a cherished photograph of her, a symbol of the profound impact this film has had on me personally.

Hassona, a 25-year-old photojournalist residing in Gaza, tragically lost her life, along with her family, when their building was hit by an Israeli missile in April. This unfortunate incident occurred only a day after her work had been chosen for the Cannes Film Festival.

In this flick, I learned that our protagonist, Farsi, and Hassona discussed the prospect of her escaping Gaza to participate in a festival – a fascinating twist that kept me on the edge of my seat!

On the opening day of Cannes, I found myself at the center of a powerful statement as Hassona’s name graced a letter signed by over 370 influential figures within our industry. This eloquently penned document denounced her tragic demise and took aim at the perceived silence from our world of cinema regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. As a movie reviewer, it’s both humbling and sobering to witness such unity and conviction among my peers.

Under the signatures of notable figures like Mark Ruffalo, Guy Pearce, Ralph Fiennes, Melissa Barrera, Yorgos Lanthimos, Javier Bardem, Hannah Einbinder, Pedro Almodóvar, David Cronenberg, Alfonso Cuarón, Mike Leigh, Alex Gibney, Viggo Mortensen, Cynthia Nixon, Tessa Ross and others, the letter expresses concern for the lack of backing given by AMPAS to “No Other Land” co-director Hamdan Ballal following his detention by the Israeli military.

Such passiveness disappoints us,” it stated, ending with: “For Fatma, and everyone else who perishes in apathy. Films have an obligation to convey their messages, to mirror our communities. Let’s take action before it’s too late.

After the news of Hassona’s death, the ACID team put out a statement

Her smile held a spellbinding quality, much like her determination: she bore witness, captured images, and even distributed food amidst the explosions in Gaza, all while enduring hardships such as mourning and hunger. We listened to her tale, celebrated each sighting of her alive, and worried for her safety,” it was stated.

In a movie we previously produced, a young woman’s vitality appeared almost miraculous. However, we will no longer endorse or screen this film, beginning with the Cannes Festival. Everyone involved in filmmaking and audience members should strive to match her radiance.

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2025-05-16 00:16