Actress Dorra Zaraouk Directs Powerful Gaza Documentary

Tunisian actress Dorra Zaraouk has transitioned to directing with "The Life That Remains," a poignant documentary capturing a young Gazan woman and her family's escape to Egypt. The film, shot in domestic settings, emphasizes the family's resilience and dignity as they navigate displacement, eschewing overt political discourse for a focus on everyday life.

Zaraouk felt compelled to tell this story urgently after being contacted by the subject via Instagram, bypassing traditional production routes. She navigated building trust with a family unaccustomed to being filmed, prioritizing their dignity and ensuring their stories were told with sensitivity, even capturing moments of vulnerability.

The documentary has resonated emotionally at festivals like Cairo and Rotterdam, connecting with audiences who see their own experiences reflected. Zaraouk also highlighted the importance of new events like the Doha Film Festival in providing visibility for regional filmmakers and their diverse stories, fostering essential industry growth.