Voices from Gaza children at 2026 Fajr fest

'The Land of Angels' themed on Palestinian children is one of the films selected for the 44th Fajr Film Festival.

The film, directed by Iranian filmmaker Babak Khajehpasha, looks at one of the most painful human stories of our time: the lives of Palestinian children in Gaza.

The story follows children who grow up surrounded by war and destruction, yet still believe in hope, life, and small miracles. The film uses a simple and linear story and avoids complex cinematic techniques. While this simplicity sometimes makes the story feel slow, it matches the innocent and childlike point of view of the film.

Instead of showing direct violence, 'The Land of Angels' focuses on the emotional and psychological effects of war, especially on children and women

The pain of loss, fear, and waiting is shown quietly, through faces, silence, and small human moments.

One of the film’s strongest points is its natural and believable acting, especially by the child actors. The performance of Syrian actress Sulaf Fawakherji, who plays a strong and patient mother, is especially moving. The film’s simple atmosphere, attention to human details, and emotional ending help create a touching experience for the audience.

'The Land of Angels' is not a film that tries to impress with style. Instead, it offers a human, emotional story about suffering, love, and hope in the middle of crisis.

Founded in 1982, the Fajr Film Festival is held annually to commemorate the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. Over the past four decades, it has evolved into Iran’s most prestigious film festival and a central event in the country’s cultural calendar.

The festival has played a crucial role in shaping modern Iranian cinema, serving as the launchpad for many of Iran’s internationally acclaimed directors.

The 44th Fajr National Film Festival kicked off on February 1 and runs until February 11.