A Journey to Break the Gaza Blockade
‘Al Awda’ (R21) documents a real-life 2018 mission in which 22 activists from 15 countries sailed toward Gaza in an attempt to break Israel’s blockade and deliver aid to Palestinians. Aboard the boat ‘Al Awda,’ the group prepared for the possibility of confrontation with the Israeli military, drawing lessons from earlier flotilla attempts.
The film situates this journey within a longer history of resistance at sea, shaped by the 2010 ‘Mavi Marmara’ raid, when Israeli commandos killed 10 activists and wounded more than 50 during a similar mission.
That tragedy looms over the activists as they rehearse scenarios, confront fear, and make collective decisions while sailing across the Mediterranean.
Ordinary People, Collective Courage
Rather than focusing on spectacle, ‘Al Awda’ centres on how ordinary people organise themselves under pressure. Through conversations, thorough planning and moments of reflection, the activists practice mutual care, consensus decision-making and solidarity while preparing for an encounter they know could turn dangerous.
The documentary connects the Gaza blockade to wider global crises, including climate breakdown, arguing that both demand urgent and collective action. Its message is clear: solidarity is something practiced through real risk and responsibility.
Director and Featured Activists
The film is directed by Jason Soo.
It features:
- Dr Ang Swee Chai, Singaporean exile
- Dr Afandi Salleh, Malaysian academic
- Yonatan Shapira
- Zohar Chamberlain Regev
Together, they represent a cross-border group of activists whose political commitments and personal histories shape the mission.
One-night Screening in Singapore
‘Al Awda’ will have its final screening in Singapore on:
- Date: Thursday, 1 January 2026
- Time: 8.00pm
- Venue: Carnival Cinemas, Golden Mile Tower (Level 3)
- Duration: 70 minutes
Tickets are available via Carnival Cinemas.
Fundraiser for Migrant and Precarious Workers
A ticket sponsorship programme is available to support migrant and precarious workers who wish to attend the screening. Those who would like to donate tickets or request sponsored seats can contact +65 9235 6065.
The organisers say word-of-mouth support is crucial, as the screening relies on community sharing to reach audiences.
Find tickets here.
Watch the trailer here:
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