At the 97th Academy Awards, No Other Land emerged as a powerful voice in documentary filmmaking, clinching the award for Best Documentary Feature. The film, brought to life by Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham, and Rachel Szor, captivated audiences with its stirring narrative and profound exploration of human experience.
A Deep Dive into Realities

No Other Land delves into the intricate tapestry of life in a region defined by its unique history and cultural resilience. The documentary offers an intimate portrayal of its subjects, shedding light on stories of struggle, hope, and transformation. Its compelling storytelling and evocative visuals made it a standout piece, resonating with viewers around the globe.
The Competition
The film triumphed in a highly competitive category, standing out among other remarkable documentaries:
- Black Box Diaries – Directed by Shiori Itō, this film provided a candid look at modern societal challenges.
- Porcelain War – A collaborative effort by Brendan Bellomo and Slava Leontyev, offering a critical examination of conflict and its repercussions.
- Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat – Johan Grimonprez’s innovative documentary, which intertwined music with the political upheavals of a nation.
- Sugarcane – Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie’s exploration of tradition and change, blending cultural narratives with vibrant imagery.
A Triumph of Truth-Telling
The victory of No Other Land at the 2025 Oscars highlights the enduring power of documentary films to reveal hidden truths and spark conversations on pressing global issues. Its win is not just a personal triumph for its creative team but also a celebration of the unyielding human spirit captured through the lens of real-life stories.
This landmark achievement underscores the significance of documentaries in enriching our understanding of the world, paving the way for more stories that challenge, inspire, and transform.