Iman Zawahry’s poignant short animation, based on the book ‘Baba, what does my name mean?’ and co-written with Rifk Ebeid, unfolds a touching coming-of-age tale as young Palestinian-American Saamidah, voiced by Jannah Ebeid, embarks on her first day of school, grappling with the challenge of locating her homeland on the map. With Waseem Alzer lending his voice to her father and Aizzah Fatima to the teacher, the film is a heartwarming exploration of identity, history, and pride in Palestinian culture.
Rich in cultural nuances, the animation beautifully showcases Palestinian traditions, from the iconic Keffiyeh to the symbolic Ka’ak Al Quds, seamlessly weaving these elements into the narrative. The father-daughter dynamic adds emotional depth, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage in shaping one’s sense of self.
Iman Zawahry’s adept storytelling skillfully avoids political debates, focusing instead on the simplicity of Palestinian pride, making it a universally relatable and educational experience. Lamaa Jawhari and Iman Zawahry’s meticulous 2D animation brings the narrative to life with vibrant colors and charming visuals, creating a sweet and inspiring tale that serves as both a celebration of heritage and a valuable educational tool for young audiences.
