PARIS, February 12, 2024 (WAFA) – Palestinian filmmaker Maha Haj’s short film Upshot has been awarded the International Audience Award at the 47th Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival.

The film has already earned significant praise, taking home the Golden Pardino at the 77th Locarno Film Festival and the Golden Star at the 7th El Gouna Film Festival.

Set amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Upshot follows Suleiman and Lubna, a grieving couple who seek refuge on a remote, foggy farm to escape their sorrow.

Their fragile peace is shattered when an unexpected visitor arrives, compelling them to face a painful truth from their past.

Reflecting on her film, Haj explained:  “Upshot is both a lamentation and a testament to the indomitable power of the human spirit. There are no easy answers, no political solutions to assuage the anguish of parents who have lost everything. And so, it unfolds in a realm unbound by time or place — a poignant reflection of the irreparable loss that defies earthly confines.”

K.T