The provocative documentary 'NAZA', accused by Israeli officials of defaming military actions, will soon hit U.S. theaters in a self-distribution model.
The investigative documentary NAZA, which has stirred significant controversy at the Venice Film Festival, is officially scheduled to be released in U.S. theaters. Announced by filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor on September 18, the film will open at IFC in New York City on September 30, followed by an expansion to Los Angeles and other notable markets on October 9, according to Deadline.
The film has received harsh criticism from Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has publicly condemned its content. The documentary presents allegations that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) set predetermined civilian death quotas during military operations in Gaza targeting Hamas. The sources include testimonies from 24 anonymous Israeli military and intelligence officers. In response to these claims, the IDF has categorically denied any allegations, asserting that the sources lack access to relevant intelligence and military information.
NAZA explores complex issues surrounding military ethics and civilian casualties, a subject that resonates deeply amid ongoing conflicts. Features in the film suggest that the IDF considered allowing the deaths of up to 500 Palestinian civilians as collateral in operations against Hamas. The film’s name itself is a military acronym indicating expected civilian fatalities in airstrikes—an unsettling revelation that underscores the stark realities of warfare.
Abraham and Szor, noted as directors of the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, clarify their motivations in creating NAZA. They express a deep sense of responsibility to confront the systems facilitating civilian deaths, acknowledging historical questions about dehumanization during conflict. The filmmakers claim many of the allegations presented were reported shortly after the October 7 attacks by The Guardian, collaborating with +972 Magazine and Local Call.
The impact of NAZA seems particularly pertinent now, as Netanyahu’s attacks on the film could reflect concerns regarding its influence on impending Israeli elections scheduled for October 27. Polls suggest that Netanyahu's coalition may face significant challenges, potentially altering the political landscape.
To facilitate quick access to audiences, the filmmakers have opted for a self-distribution approach in the U.S., collaborating with The Guardian and mk2 to assemble a network of international partners. This strategy not only showcases their commitment to bringing urgent narratives to viewers but also sets a precedent for how controversial films can find their way to audiences amidst political pushback.
The release of NAZA will likely spark substantial discussions on military ethics and civilian safety, particularly in the context of U.S.-Israeli relations and perceptions of the Israeli military. Given the polarized views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, this documentary could serve as a catalyst for dialogue and reflection on the complexities of modern warfare. Audiences in the U.S. will have the opportunity to confront uncomfortable truths as presented by NAZA, enriching their understanding of global military conflicts.
For more about documentary releases, see our coverage on Elevation Pictures' rights acquisition for ‘The Auschwitz Volunteer’ documentary and A24's confirmation on Elizabeth Holmes documentary.
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