At the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Palestinian twin brothers Arab and Tarzan Nasser debuted their film Once Upon a Time in Gaza in the Un Certain Regard section. This section highlights 20 new films with unique styles and unusual narratives seeking international recognition. Out of the twenty films, Once Upon a Time in Gaza earned the Nasser brothers the Best Director award. The film takes place in Gaza City in 2007. Yahya, a student at the local university, and a falafel seller named Osama, who is also involved in drug dealing, navigate their lives under Hamas’ rule while dealing with local issues such as corruption inside law enforcement. The film tells a story of the circumstances of Hamas rule and the Israeli blockade. Intertwined with revenge and survival, the film highlights the resilience and humanity of Palestinians despite their suffering.

Living in Jordan since 2007 due to the Gaza Strip blockade, the Nasser brothers hope to tell an honest narrative of Gaza—a city that decades before flourished with bustling life and human stories. The brothers want to represent the Gaza they remember, which is a sharp contrast with its current state of devastation. With components of genres such as crime thrillers and drama, the film is based on historical records, preserving the picture of a city that they once knew.

The brothers’ stylistic choices are heavily influenced by directors like the Safdie Brothers and Quentin Tarantino. Critics praise the captivating cinematography and enchanting score. On the other hand, some critics believe that the film relies too heavily on the film’s influences and therefore may overshadow a unique directorial style; however, many agree that the film’s narrative is meant to humanize the experiences of Gazans and offers a window into a world often unseen.

Overall, Once Upon a Time in Gaza won the Best Director award because it stood out for its timely subject matter and artistic choices, aiding in Palestinian representation as well as creating new conversations about raw experiences and storytelling in oppressed regions.