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Peace Surfers: Israeli, Palestinian Kids Bridge Divide
17 Feb
Summary
- Film depicts friendship between Israeli and Palestinian boys.
- A mentor guides the children through escalating tensions.
- Broadcast event includes debate on cinema's role in peace.
A French pay TV channel is hosting a primetime broadcast event featuring the film "In a Whisper," directed by Leyla Bouzid. The broadcast will include Loris Lai's 2003 drama "Les Enfants de Gaza: Les Vagues de la Liberté," also known as "How Kids Roll." This film portrays the developing bond between an 11-year-old Palestinian boy from Gaza and an Israeli boy, both sharing a passion for surfing.
Set during the Second Intifada, the narrative shows how their friendship flourishes under the mentorship of a former surf champion. As tensions rise, one boy faces a life-altering decision. The film, produced by Tarak Ben Ammar and Elsa Ferri, carries a universal message of peace, predating recent conflicts.
Following the screening, a live debate will feature director Loris Lai and the young leads, alongside filmmakers and peace advocates. They will discuss the film's origins, its themes of fraternity, and cinema's capacity to build bridges between communities. This follows a prior screening at Paris' Mac Mahon theater for middle school students.
