Citizen Osama review: An extraordinary portrait of the struggle to live in Gaza
When Osama Al-Ashi approaches a young boy with a water tank, the boy has a question: why does a journalist need water? Osama explains that journalists are just like everyone else. They get thirsty, too. Elsewhere in Citizen Osama , Ahmed Hassouna’s documentary about his friend in northern Gaza, a taxi driver refuses to take Osama because he is a journalist. Carrying him could make the car a…
Citizen Osama is a documentary film that offers a glimpse into the daily life of journalist Osama Al-Ashi in Gaza. The film, directed by Ahmed Hassouna, follows Al-Ashi as he continues to search for basic necessities like food, water, and shelter amidst the ongoing crisis in the region. The movie premiered at the Venice Film Festival and is Palestine's entry for the 2027 Oscars.
Al-Ashi is portrayed as a humble and determined individual who continues his work despite the harsh conditions. The film takes the viewer through Gaza's struggles that have intensified since October 7, including hunger, violence, and unsafe living conditions. Despite the ongoing threat to his life, Al-Ashi remains committed to his work and the safety of his family.
The documentary highlights the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity, showing how people in Gaza continue to support each other in their daily lives. As the film progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult to hold onto any sense of hope, but it reaffirms the importance of caring for one another in the most challenging circumstances.
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