Filmmaker's Bold Move: Documenting Gaza's Doctors

Filmmaker Poh Si Teng, moved by the death of a colleague and a perceived silence from media peers, embarked on a mission to document the reality in Gaza. She quit her executive role at ABC News and used her savings to fund the documentary "American Doctor."

The film centers on three physicians: Dr. Mark Perlmutter, Dr. Feroze Sidhwa, and Dr. Thaer Ahmad. They are depicted saving children in a Gaza hospital while simultaneously speaking out against bombings and atrocities.

Initially considering a film about journalists, Teng opted for a medical drama format, believing it would resonate more with American audiences. The documentary opens with a debate on the ethics of showing graphic images of child casualties.

"American Doctor" premiered at Sundance, sparking conversations and indicating a growing audience receptiveness to Palestinian stories. Watermelon Pictures, a Palestinian-owned distributor, joined as the U.S. distributor in April, prioritizing a swift release to support healthcare workers.

The film's creators describe it as a "Trojan Horse" to present a Palestinian perspective and amplify the voices of medical NGOs. Free screenings are offered to medical professionals in Los Angeles and Chicago to honor healthcare workers and underscore the human element.