Life is Beautiful

In 2014, Mohamed Jabaly was invited to Norway to present his film Ambulance. During his stay, the borders of Gaza – his country of origin – were closed indefinitely. This political situation led to many consequences, and when Norway refused to accept his Palestinian passport, Mohamed became stateless. Life is Beautiful is a moving account of his journey to obtain a visa and, above all, to return home. Between laughter and tears, he takes us into his daily life in Norway, from promoting his film to discovering the country and the pain of speaking with his family, with whom he cannot be reunited. Winner of the IDFA award for Best Director in International Competition, this film is a cry for the freedom of movement and opportunity, but above all the freedom to pursue one’s dreams.

This film received the Gilda Vieira de Mello Prize – in honor of her son Sergio Vieira de Mello – at the FIFDH 2024.