Once Upon a Time in Gaza Wins Top Honor at 10th Critics’ Awards for Arab Films

Palestinian directors Tarzan and Arab Nasser’s film Once Upon A Time In Gaza received the Best Film award at the 10th Critics’ Awards for Arab Films.

Set in Gaza during 2007, the film follows the misadventures of a student, portrayed by Nader Abd Alhay, and a restaurant owner with criminal ties, played by Majd Eid. It premiered in the Un Certain Regard section last year and earned the Best Director prize.

Palestine 36, nominated in six categories, took home awards for Best Screenplay, awarded to director Annemarie Jacir, and Best Cinematography, won by Hélène Louvart.

Cherien Dabis was recognized as Best Director for her work on All That’s Left Of You.

The Critics’ Awards for Arab Films, organized by the Arab Cinema Centre (ACC), saw participation from a record 307 Arab and international critics across 75 countries. The awards ceremony is scheduled for later today at Cannes’ Plage des Palmes.

“As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Critics Awards for Arab Films, our mission has remained steadfast: to spotlight the finest Arab films and talents and help bring them the international recognition they deserve,” stated ACC Co-Founders Alaa Karkouti and Maher Diab.

This milestone edition also honored prominent figures whose contributions have made a significant impact on the Arab film and entertainment landscape. The Game Changer Award went to Vincenzo Bugno for his crucial role in supporting Arab cinema and enhancing its global presence. The Personality of the Year Award was presented to Hussein Fahmy, recognizing his outstanding artistic career and ongoing contributions to Arab cinema.

2026 Winners

Best Feature Film

ONCE UPON A TIME IN GAZA | Arab and Tarzan Nasser | Palestine

Best Screenplay

Annemarie Jacir | PALESTINE 36

Best Director

Cherien Dabis | ALL THAT’S LEFT OF YOU

Best Actress

Deborah Christelle Naney | PROMISED SKY

Best Actor

Adham Shukr | THE SETTLEMENT

Best Music

Suad Bushnaq | YUNAN

Best Editing

Ameer Fakher Eldin | YUNAN

Best Cinematography

Hélène Louvart | PALESTINE 36

Best Documentary

THE LIONS BY THE RIVER TIGRIS | Zaradasht Ahmed | Iraq

Best Short Film

I’M GLAD YOU’RE DEAD NOW | Tawfeek Barhom | Palestine