Neon to Distribute Gaza Documentary NAZA in U.S. Theaters
Neon has acquired U.S. distribution rights for the documentary NAZA, adding resources for wider release as the film continues to earn at the box office.
Neon announced it will handle U.S. theatrical distribution for NAZA, a documentary by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor that examines the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza. The studio will provide publicity, theater booking, and marketing support, according to sources.
The film, which has already earned about $900,000 in North America within two weeks and more than $6.5 million overseas, previously relied on its producers—including The Guardian and sales company MK2—to place it in theaters. Neon said it will work with the filmmakers to expand the film’s reach.
"We will work with the filmmakers to expand its footprint and to reach larger audiences and communities," Neon said in a statement.
Abraham, who conducted interviews with roughly two dozen IDF soldiers for the documentary, told The Hollywood Reporter that the truth of the soldiers’ accounts is being denied in several countries.
"That truth should have been evident from the very start…So many people — especially Israelis, and people in the United States and in Germany and other places — are still denying those crimes, and the denial of those crimes allows them to persist," Abraham said.
The documentary has received strong critical attention, with The Hollywood Reporter describing it as “brave and indispensable.” The Israeli Defense Forces have criticized the film as “distorted, misleading and disingenuous.” Abraham also told a New York Film Festival audience that the film aims to influence U.S. policy toward aid for Israel.
"For us, [it’s] the main motivation…these crimes are ongoing not just because our country is doing it but because your country is supporting and funding it," he said.
Neon’s involvement comes as the studio prepares for an active awards season, having previously distributed titles such as Anora and Parasite.