Alana Hadid, sister of models Bella and Gigi, has launched a film production and distribution label called Watermelon Pictures. The company aims to promote cultural representation and social advocacy, with a focus on Palestinian stories [1b5e3ddb]. Watermelon Pictures' first movie is a documentary titled 'Walled Off,' which explores the lives of Palestinians living in the area around the Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem. The hotel, designed by British street artist Banksy, is managed by Palestinians and serves as a symbol of creative resistance. The film, written and directed by Vin Arfuso, will be released in the US on May 3, 2024. It is co-produced by Alana Hadid's brother, Anwar Hadid, as well as Roger Waters and Kweku Mandela [1b5e3ddb].
The launch of Watermelon Pictures adds to the growing number of initiatives and platforms amplifying Palestinian voices in the film industry. It reflects a broader trend of cultural figures and artists using their platforms to shed light on the Palestinian experience and advocate for justice and equality [1b5e3ddb].