Triumph at Thessaloniki: Documentary Festival Crowns "Coexistence, My Ass!"

A Comedian's Plea for Peace Resonates

In a powerful statement for peace and coexistence, Amber Fares' documentary "Coexistence, My Ass!" featuring Israeli comedian Noam Shuster-Eliassi, clinched the coveted Golden Alexander at the Thessaloniki International Documentary Festival (TiDF). This top honor not only celebrates the film's compelling narrative but also automatically qualifies it for Best Documentary Feature consideration at the Academy Awards.

Shuster-Eliassi, whose one-woman show inspired the film, accepted the award alongside Fares and the production team, acknowledging her parents' influence on her activism:

"Our activism... is not just in one protest... It's demonstrating what we envision the alternative is with your body, with your languages... using our privilege to make sure that my Palestinian friends will be free."

Freedom of Speech Under Fire

Shuster-Eliassi's win was underscored by the recent arrest of fellow Palestinian comedian Nidal Badarny for online videos deemed a threat to public order. She highlighted the precarious nature of free speech, attributing her own platform to her "privilege as an Israeli Jew." This poignant contrast amplified the film's message, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue and understanding in a region rife with conflict.

From Political Activism to Comedy: Zelenskyy's Influence

Injecting a touch of humor into the serious discussion, Shuster-Eliassi revealed an unexpected inspiration for her comedic career: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

"When I changed from political activism into comedy... I heard that in The Ukraine, a Jewish comedian...became the president! So, I thought if I want to take my political career seriously, I need to start writing jokes because I know that when you’re laughing, you’re listening.”

Double Win for "Coexistence, My Ass!"

Adding to its accolades, "Coexistence, My Ass!" also received the Human Rights in Motion Award from the Council of Europe, further solidifying its impact on the international stage. The jury, comprised of prominent figures like Dimitris Athiridis and Lauren Greenfield, praised the film's fearless challenge to societal taboos and its protagonist's disarming humor.

"Free Leonard Peltier" Captures Silver Alexander and More

The Silver Alexander went to "Free Leonard Peltier," a documentary chronicling the Native American activist's nearly 50-year imprisonment for the alleged murder of two FBI agents. Directed by Jesse Short Bull and David France, the film also garnered the FIPRESCI critics prize and the International Amnesty Award. The Amnesty International jury lauded the film for its "compelling portrayal of a case that illuminates the blatant violation of indigenous rights in America."

A Celebration of Documentary Filmmaking

The festival showcased a diverse range of documentaries, with awards presented in various categories, including Newcomers, Film Forward, Immersive, and Podcast. The Golden Alexander in the Newcomers Competition was awarded to "How to Build a Library," while "Endless Cookie" claimed the top prize in the Film Forward section.

Full List of Award Winners: A Diverse Spectrum of Voices

The 27th TiDF highlighted a rich tapestry of stories and filmmaking styles. From exploring the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to exposing injustices against indigenous communities, the winning documentaries showcased the power of film to ignite conversations and champion human rights. A full list of award recipients and jury comments can be found on the festival's official website.