“The Voice of Hind Rajab” Film Gets U.S. Release in December

The critically acclaimed film, “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” has officially secured U.S. distribution and is set for a December 17 theatrical release. Directed by two-time Oscar-nominated filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, the docudrama has garnered significant international attention and numerous awards since its premiere. The U.S. distribution will be handled by WILLA, the production partner’s distribution arm, signaling a major step for the film to reach a wider audience across the United States.

A Deeply Moving Story Based on True Events

“The Voice of Hind Rajab” is a powerful docudrama inspired by the real-life tragedy of a six-year-old Palestinian girl named Hind Rajab. The film reconstructs the harrowing events of January 29, 2024, when Hind, trapped in a car under fire in Gaza with her deceased family members, made a desperate phone call to the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) pleading for rescue. The narrative primarily unfolds through the perspective of the Red Crescent volunteers, who struggled for hours to reach her amidst the ongoing conflict.

Director Kaouther Ben Hania, known for her ability to blend documentary and fiction, utilizes actual audio recordings of Hind’s calls, interweaving them with scripted performances to create an immersive and poignant viewing experience. The film captures the immense bureaucratic hurdles and the agonizing wait faced by the PRCS workers in their attempts to secure safe passage for an ambulance, highlighting the profound helplessness and urgency of the situation.

Accolades and International Recognition

Prior to its U.S. release, “The Voice of Hind Rajab” has been a standout on the international film festival circuit. It premiered in competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 3, 2025, where it was awarded the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize, the festival’s second-highest honor. The film reportedly received an extended standing ovation at its Venice premiere, with some sources noting it as one of the longest in the festival’s history. Beyond Venice, it earned the Audience Award at the San Sebastián Film Festival and received accolades at the Middleburg Film Festival and the Chicago International Film Festival. The film has also screened at prestigious events such as the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), BFI London Film Festival, and AFI Fest.

Its critical reception has been strong, with reviewers acknowledging its powerful emotional impact and its unflinching portrayal of a devastating real-life event.

Key Cast and Esteemed Production Team

The film features a dedicated cast including Saja Kilani as Rana Hassan Faqih, Motaz Malhees as Omar A. Alqam, Amer Hlehel as Mahdi M. Aljamal, and Clara Khoury as Nisreen Jeries Qawas. These actors portray the Red Crescent volunteers who were on the front lines of the desperate rescue attempt.

The production boasts a notable roster of talent behind the scenes. Nadim Cheikhrouha, Oscar-winner Odessa Rae, and James Wilson serve as producers. Furthermore, a formidable group of Hollywood luminaries has joined the project as executive producers, including Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix, Rooney Mara, Alfonso Cuarón, Jonathan Glazer, Dede Gardner, and Jeremy Kleiner. Their involvement underscores the film’s perceived artistic merit and significant social and political relevance.

U.S. Distribution by WILLA and Theatrical Release

The U.S. distribution of “The Voice of Hind Rajab” will be managed by WILLA, a company recognized for its commitment to producing and distributing socially and culturally significant cinema. WILLA’s involvement aligns with the film’s impactful themes, and the distribution strategy aims to honor the spirit in which the film was created. The movie will debut in U.S. theaters on December 17, starting with runs at New York’s Film Forum and Los Angeles’ Laemmle Theatres, before expanding nationwide.

The film has also been selected as Tunisia’s official submission for the 98th Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film, further elevating its profile and potential reach.

Impact Campaign and Broader Significance

Beyond its theatrical run, “The Voice of Hind Rajab” will be accompanied by a robust impact campaign. This initiative includes special screenings at prominent international bodies such as the United Nations, the U.K. Parliament, and the European Parliament, as well as at U.S. universities and community events nationwide in collaboration with advocacy organizations. This campaign seeks to amplify the film’s message and foster dialogue around the events it depicts.

The film stands as a poignant testimony, aiming to humanize the stories often lost in wider narratives and ensure that voices like Hind Rajab’s continue to resonate, advocating for accountability and justice.