The Heart of Connection in Troubling Times
The documentary “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk”, directed by Sepideh Farsi, is a poignant exploration of friendship that blossoms in the face of severe geopolitical tension. It captures the enduring human spirit through the unlikely yet profound connection between a filmmaker and a resident of Gaza City, linking their lives through the fragility of digital communication.
The Context: A War-Torn Landscape
In October 2023, following a devastating attack by Hamas on Israel, the ensuing war drastically changed the landscape of Gaza—both literally and figuratively. As reports of devastation poured in, Farsi endeavored to document the realities faced by those caught in the crossfire, only to find barriers imposed by an Israeli blockade. This led her to forge a new path: she began communicating with Fatima Hassouna, a refugee residing in Gaza City, via video calls.
“The entire experience was a testament to how technology could bring souls together, albeit through screens.”
The Uniqueness of a Screen-Mediated Friendship
What struck me about this documentary is how it utilizes the very technology meant to connect us, juxtaposed against the backdrop of disconnection and loss. Farsi doesn't just film the events; she involves us in her process, making us feel like fellow travelers in this surreal journey. Each video call has its own rhythm, occasionally interrupted by unstable connections, mimicking the lived experience of individuals under siege. This technique, while seemingly clunky, invites the audience into a shared space of uncertainty and connection.
Fatima Hassouna: A Voice of Resilience
Hassouna's presence is magnetic. When she smiles as she greets Farsi, we feel an immediate warmth—a stark contrast to the desolation surrounding her. But her laughter is tempered by a harsh reality; she openly shares the tribulations her family faces, from food shortages to the emotional toll of living in a war zone. Through her eyes, we witness not just the destruction of buildings but the eradication of lives and dreams.
The Passage of Time: A Narrative Device
Farsi cleverly uses timestamps and news footage to ground the personal story within the broader context of the ongoing conflict, adding layers to the narrative. Each chronological marker serves as a reminder of the grim reality that Hassouna faces daily, forging a connection not just between two women, but across cultures and borders. With every passing day, viewers witness the humanizing details of Hassouna's life, capturing fleeting moments of joy amidst pervasive despair.
The Tragic Turn
Tragically, what begins as a tale of hope ends in heartbreak. On April 16, 2025, just a day after Hassouna learns that her story will be featured in the Cannes Film Festival, she is killed in an Israeli airstrike, alongside nine of her family members. This gut-wrenching development transforms the film into not just a personal story but a broader commentary on loss within the political turmoil of the region.
The Artistic Lens
The art of “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk” lies not only in its storytelling but in its cinematic technique. Farsi captures breathtaking images through Hassouna's lens—photojournalism that conveys the stark contrast between life before and during wartime. These moments contrast the crushing realities and batteries of conflict, revealing the beauty that exists even in destruction.
“The film becomes a vessel not merely for documentation, but for remembrance.'”
A Call for Reflection
In a world that often feels fragmented, Farsi's work serves as a reminder of our shared humanity. “Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk” compels us to think deeply about our connections with those across the globe—asking us to reflect on how we relate to people trapped in cycles of violence. It does so not through sensationalism, but through empathy and understanding, inviting viewers to join in a conversation about peace and the power of the human spirit.
Final Thoughts
This film is more than a somber look at war; it's a celebration of resilience, friendship, and the undeniable ties that bind us, even when worlds apart. Farsi has crafted a narrative that not only sheds light on the human experience within conflicts but also leaves a lingering hope for a brighter future. As we take in this heartbreaking story, we are reminded of the importance of listening to the stories of those affected by conflicts—a crucial step towards understanding and healing.
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/07/movies/put-your-soul-on-your-hand-and-walk-an-extraordinary-voice-and-film.html
