In a remarkable turn for the Italian film market, 'NAZA,' a documentary focusing on the conflict in Gaza, has debuted at number one, eclipsing the re-release of Disney's 'Avengers: Endgame Encore.' The film, which recently garnered a special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival, pulled in approximately €1.1 million ($1.2 million) over Monday and Tuesday, according to initial reports from Variety. In contrast, 'Avengers: Endgame Encore,' in its second week of re-release, managed €356,000 ($404,000) during the same two-day period.
Originally slated for a limited three-day run in Italy from September 28-30 through I Wonder Pictures, the overwhelming demand for 'NAZA' has prompted an extension of its theatrical engagement. Numerous screenings were reportedly sold out even before the documentary's official premiere, highlighting a significant public interest in its timely subject matter.
'NAZA' is co-directed by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, who are also among the four co-directors behind the Oscar-winning 2025 documentary 'No Other Land.' The film, shot at night from the rooftops of Tel Aviv, delves into the grim realities of the killing of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Its powerful narrative resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning a 24.5-minute standing ovation at Venice and a positive reception at the New York Film Festival last week.
The documentary is set for an extensive global rollout, with theatrical releases planned in over 50 territories. Adding to its accessibility, 'NAZA' will also be made available for free viewing worldwide via The Guardian's website in late November. The U.S. distribution strategy is particularly innovative, bypassing traditional studio or independent distributors. Spearheaded by The Guardian and French sales company MK2, the film's U.S. premiere is scheduled exclusively at the IFC Center in New York City.
'NAZA' builds upon investigative revelations initially published between 2023 and 2025 by the Israeli-Palestinian publication +972, Hebrew-language outlet Local Call, and The Guardian. The project is a collaboration between The Guardian and JW Films, with acclaimed director Jonathan Glazer serving as executive producer and MK2 handling international sales. Directors Abraham and Szor articulated their motivations when announcing the film's global distribution:
"We made this film out of a sense of obligation to use our position as Israeli filmmakers and journalists to examine the systems behind the mass killing of Palestinian civilians for which our country is responsible."
They further emphasized the film's exploration of profound questions about dehumanization and the importance of breaking silence, stating, "It is up to all of us to break that silence."