The Voice of Hind Rajab Wins Second Prize at Venice Film Festival

September 2025 — Kaouther Ben Hania’s deeply moving docudrama The Voice of Hind Rajab has secured the Silver Lion (Grand Jury Prize) at the 82nd Venice Film Festival, claiming second place and marking one of the most emotional highlights of this year’s event.

A Story Told Through a Child’s Voice

The film centers on the tragic final moments of five-year-old Hind Rajab, a Gazan child killed earlier this year after being trapped in a car under heavy fire. Her desperate phone calls to emergency responders, recorded in real life, form the emotional backbone of the film. Palestinian actors portray the dispatchers, while Hind’s own voice is preserved, creating a haunting yet dignified retelling of her last moments.

Emotional Reaction in Venice

At its premiere, the film received a staggering 23-minute standing ovation—the longest of the festival so far. Many in the audience openly wept, while others shouted words of solidarity, reflecting both the artistic impact and the political weight carried by the film.

During her acceptance speech, Ben Hania emphasized that Hind’s voice represents not just one child but an entire people enduring unimaginable suffering. She reminded audiences that cinema cannot undo tragedy but can give permanence to voices that the world might otherwise forget.

Global Backing and Recognition

The project received support from high-profile executive producers, including Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix, Alfonso Cuarón, Rooney Mara, and Jonathan Glazer. Their involvement helped elevate the film’s global reach, ensuring Hind’s story resonated far beyond the festival.

Why It Matters

Humanizing Conflict: The film strips away political abstractions, focusing on the raw humanity of one child’s desperate cry for help.
Ethical Storytelling: By using Hind’s actual voice and avoiding graphic reenactments, the film respects her dignity while amplifying her truth.
Cultural Impact: Its recognition at Venice demonstrates the power of art to serve as both witness and testimony in times of violence and injustice.

A Lasting Legacy

With its Silver Lion win, The Voice of Hind Rajab is not only a cinematic triumph but also a call for accountability, remembrance, and compassion. The haunting echoes of Hind’s pleas ensure that her story will continue to resonate worldwide, long after the festival lights fade.