Alana Hadid launches Palestinian-owned film label

Fashion designer Alana Hadid, sister to supermodels Bella and Gigi Hadid, has ventured into film production and distribution with the launch of Watermelon Pictures, as per Deadline. Positioned as a Palestinian-owned independent film label, Watermelon Pictures seeks to serve as a platform for underrepresented filMMAkers worldwide, focusing on cultural representation and social advocacy.

The company's mission, as stated on its website, underscores its dedication to amplifying voices often marginalised in the film industry. Watermelon Pictures aims to shed light on narratives that have long been overlooked while championing creative resistance as a powerful tool for social change.

Watermelon Pictures' inaugural project, the documentary Walled Off, dives into the story of the Walled Off Hotel, a unique establishment situated in Bethlehem, directly facing the Israeli West Bank barrier wall. Financed and conceptualised by renowned British street artist Banksy, the hotel serves as a symbol of artistic defiance against political oppression.

Collaborating on Walled Off is an array of notable figures, including Alana Hadid's brother, American-Palestinian model and musician Anwar Hadid, as well as Pink Floyd's Roger Waters, known for his outspoken political views. Also involved in the production is Kweku Mandela, grandson of the iconic South African leader Nelson Mandela. Alana, serving as the Creative Director of Watermelon Pictures, expressed her vision for the company, stating, “Our goal is to provide a safe haven for excluded voices striving for creative resistance...Through our film releases, we aim to educate and inspire audiences worldwide to stand up against injustice.”

In addition to its commitment to social advocacy, Watermelon Pictures embraces Palestinian culture as a central theme of its brand identity. The company's statement highlights the vibrancy and resilience of Palestinian heritage, symbolised by the iconic fruit that shares its colours with the Palestinian flag. As Watermelon Pictures embarks on its journey to spotlight diverse narratives and foster meaningful dialogue, its initiatives represent a significant step towards inclusivity and representation within the global film industry.

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