Michael Moore Boards Palestinian Oscar Entry ‘From Ground Zero’ as Executive Producer: ‘It’s an Honor to Stand in Solidarity’ (EXCLUSIVE)

Michael Moore has joined the production team of “From Ground Zero” — the recently shortlisted Palestinian entry for the 97th Academy Awards’ best international film category — as executive producer.

A collection of shorts made by 22 Palestinian filmmakers living through war in present day Gaza, “From Ground Zero” blends animation, documentary and fiction to “capture the steadfastness of the human spirit and enduring creativity that thrives even in the face of relentless devastation,” according to the producers. Watermelon Pictures will release the film — which was coordinated and funded by director Rashid Masharawi — across the U.S. on Jan. 3.

“These Palestinian filmmakers have accomplished a cinematic miracle. They have made a brilliant film in the midst of what Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have now declared a genocide,” said Moore, who won the Oscar in 2003 for his groundbreaking documentary “Bowling for Columbine” and the Palme d’Or in 2004 for “Fahrenheit 9/11.”

“The only weapons that Rashid and these 22 courageous Palestinian directors in Gaza have are their cameras and their creativity. No filmmaker, writer or artist should ever have to tell the story of their own extermination. It’s an honor to stand in solidarity with them and help share their stories with the world.”

“From Ground Zero” was initially accepted into Cannes but was pulled by organizers on political grounds, eventually having its formal premiere in Toronto. In its review, Variety said that each short was “unique in its conception and yet bound by a common resilience, and a need to document the violent interruption of life and routine.” It was selected as one of the 15 shortlisted films for the international feature category earlier this month.

“The team is both humbled and thrilled to be shortlisted,” said Masharawi. “With Michael Moore’s involvement, we are even more empowered to portray the humanity and resilience of Palestinians, share their creativity with the world and showcase the power of cinema as a force for justice and understanding.”

Added Hamza Ali, co-founder of Watermelon Pictures: “Michael Moore’s passion for telling stories that challenge injustice aligns perfectly with our mission as a company. His expertise and commitment to social justice will be invaluable in helping us share these powerful, untold stories and we are thrilled to have him join ‘From Ground Zero.’”

See an exclusive look at the short film “Soft Skin” from “From Ground Zero” below.