The topic of the ongoing Palestinian genocide can feel overwhelming. We see the rising numbers of casualties and the vast destruction, yet many of us are merely observers. It’s easy to forget these statistics represent real people with unique stories. Iranian filmmaker Sepideh Farsi’s documentary, “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk,” seeks to bridge that gap. It’s not just another film; it’s a powerful reminder that beneath each number is a complex individual with hopes and dreams.
The film centers on 24-year-old photojournalist Fatma Hassona, conveyed through her WhatsApp chats with Farsi, mixed with images and news updates from the ongoing conflict. Here, Farsi doesn’t just share a narrative; she highlights Fatma’s life, her strength, and her unwavering smile. Despite the chaos around her, Fatma embodies resilience, showing a bright spirit even during dark times.
Every phone call feels like a small victory, yet the stark reality lingers. Fatma talks about days filled with bombings, yet when asked about being Palestinian, she responds with pride. Her dreams, once filled with travel and adventure, become smaller over time — a simple desire for chocolate, perhaps. This shift underscores how violence robs people of dreams, yet Fatma’s faith remains unbroken.
While she shows Farsi photos of loved ones lost, including a one-year-old, her smile is strikingly hopeful. It’s a poignant juxtaposition; her joy amidst tragedy serves as a beacon for viewers. Farsi balances this narrative, reflecting a mix of realism and cautious optimism. However, connection remains tenuous, and time is running out.
Tragically, just a day after learning their film was selected for Cannes, Fatma and her family were killed in a targeted airstrike. This dark turn transforms “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk” from a personal memoir into a heartfelt eulogy. It’s a memorial that resonates with grief, not only for Fatma but also for the many lives still affected by the ongoing violence.
More than just a tribute, the film serves as a reminder of many others like Fatma who still exist in this tragic situation. According to a recent UN report, over 200,000 Palestinians have been displaced in the last year alone. The loss is staggering, and the urgency is real. While this documentary captures a moment in time, it highlights the ongoing struggles faced by so many.
Farsi’s film is both an invitation to witness and a call to action. It urges us to embrace some of Fatma’s hope in our lives. In a world where history is often written over with blood, documenting these stories becomes not just an act of remembrance, but a radical form of preservation. “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk” will remain a crucial testament to resilience amid despair, showing that the fight for peace and recognition continues.
