PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ANU LAW REFORM AND SOCIAL JUSTICE PROGRAM, THE ANU INTERNATIONAL LAW ON PALESTINE PROJECT, AND THE ANU CENTRE FOR ARAB AND ISLAMIC STUDIES – FOLLOWED BY PANEL DISCUSSION

This devastating docudrama recounts the true story of Hind Rajab, a six-year-old girl trapped in a car in Gaza while surrounded by hostile forces. The narrative follows the desperate efforts of Palestinian Red Crescent dispatchers, including Rana (Saja Kilani) and Omar (Motaz Malhees), as they attempt to coordinate a rescue mission under extreme duress. By incorporating the actual distress calls recorded during the event, the film provides a hauntingly authentic perspective on the human cost of conflict and the bravery of those working on the front lines.

Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, The Voice of Hind Rajab received the prestigious Grand Jury Prize at the 82nd Venice Film Festival in 2025 – alongside a staggering 20-minute standing ovation from the audience at its premiere. Critics have lauded the film as a vital and uncompromising piece of cinema, particularly praising Saja Kilani’s raw performance and the director’s seamless integration of real-world audio into the dramatised sequences.

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with international law and human rights experts to discuss the key themes and implications of the film:
• Dr Tamara Kayali Browne: Palestinian scholar, poet and activist
• Amra Lee: UN and NGO humanitarian, protection, peace and conflict worker
• A/Prof Noam Peleg: UNSW international children’s rights and human rights law expert