The Take
Yes, watch it. The Nasser brothers' single voice turns 2007 Gaza into a deadpan crime dramedy where two friends run drugs from a falafel shop and chase revenge against a crooked cop.
Revenge and loyalty drive the story, not slogans, and the low-gloss shoot captures survival wit under Hamas rule without turning it into a lecture.
The Verdict
The film nails the rhythm of Gaza life in 2007 through small-time crooks and big egos. Its Western structure feels fresh because the brothers know the streets they film.
Watch it.
Common Questions
What is Once Upon a Time in Gaza about?
Two friends run a falafel shop front for drugs in 2007 Gaza and face a corrupt cop after a murder.
Is Once Upon a Time in Gaza based on a true story?
No, it's fiction inspired by the brothers' hometown and Western genre tropes.
Why is Once Upon a Time in Gaza controversial?
Hamas-era setting draws political heat despite the story staying personal and non-didactic.
