From Ground Zero: Stories From Gaza

Gaza's untold stories From ground zero.

“Mostly shying away from politics, ‘From Ground Zero’ is a view of life in hellish conditions that also finds hope in small moments of normalcy.” (Yahoo News)

“Heartrending as its individual glimpses of Gazan life can be on their own, ‘From Ground Zero’ is such an effective plea for humanity because its shorts cohere into a larger and more specific portrait of artists interrupted.” (indieWire)

“For all its horror and sadness, this is one of the most hopeful films I’ve ever seen.” (RogerEbert.com)

“The film is a stirring testament to art as a tool of survival, to the power of community art-making to affirm life in the face of omnipresent death, and to a nationless people’s desire to be seen by and engage in dialogue with the community of nations.” (Slant Magazine)

Sunday, January 26
Doors 1:30 pm | Movie 2:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Tickets HERE

FROM GROUND ZERO (Rashid Masharawi, 2025 / 115 mins / NR / Arabic with English subtitles) Twenty-two Palestinian filmmakers living through war capture their lives in Gaza over the past year, revealing stories beyond the headlines.


*Must be 18+ for entry. Must be 19+ w/ID for bar service.
*We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance at www.riotheatretickets.ca. If a screening or live event is not sold out, the remaining tickets will be available for in-person purchase at the Rio Theatre’s Box Office prior to showtime (subject to availability).
*Our box office is typically open 30 minutes before showtime. All seating is General Admission; please arrive 20-30 minutes prior to showtime to ensure great seats, and time for treats at concession.
*If you are looking to redeem either a Rio Theatre gift certificate or Groupon to any regular Rio Theatre screening: You can either email us in advance <[email protected]> and give us a “heads up,” or do it at the box office prior to showtime.

*All Rio Theatre tickets are final sale. No refunds or exchanges.

"From Ground Zero" is a compelling project that brings together 22 short films created by talented filmmakers from Gaza. Launched by Rashid Masharawi, a notable Palestinian filmmaker, the initiative emerged amid the backdrop of conflict, aiming to provide a platform for young artists to express themselves through their craft. Each film, ranging from 3 to 7 minutes, presents a unique perspective on the current reality in Gaza. The project captures the diverse experiences of life in the Palestinian enclave, including the challenges, tragedies, and moments of resilience faced by its people. With a mix of genres such as fiction, documentary, docu-fiction, animation, and experimental cinema, "From Ground Zero" showcases a rich tapestry of stories that reflect the sorrow, joy, and hope inherent in Gazan life.

About The Rio

Voted the #1 Independent Theatre in Vancouver, the Rio Theatre is a multimedia venue featuring arthouse, mainstream and cult-classic cinemas as well as live entertainment. Built in 1938, the Rio has been fully restored with a state of the art digital projector, surround sound, a huge stage and 420 luxurious seats.

1660 East Broadway, Vancouver, BC

Phone: 604.879.3456

Info Line: 604.878.3456

Email: [email protected]

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