Uncovering Hassan’s Story: The Genesis of the Films
Polina's journey to discovering Hassan's story began with a personal observation of the environmental degradation affecting the Dead Sea. When asked about her initial encounter with Hassan, she explained:
"I started making a longer film about this place in 2016, after personally seeing the extent of damage to the Dead Sea. My curiosity began because I have witnessed changes in my own lifetime. It was clear to me that the Dead Sea, often seen as a vacation spot, was facing significant environmental challenges. The project became a collaborative effort involving dedicated team members from Palestine, Israel, Jordan, and Canada.
Throughout the filming process, I came to see that there were great complexities where land meets water, and where borders and identities are both defined and denied. Many people visit the Dead Sea as a holiday destination, but it is also a region of historical significance, known as the Fertile Crescent. It has been part of a vital migration route for humans, wildlife, and plants for thousands of years."
My style of documentary filmmaking is rooted in curiosity and observation. I believe that the best documentaries emerge from a deep interest in the subject matter and a genuine desire to connect with people.
Navigating Challenges: The Filmmaking Process
Creating these documentaries was not without its hurdles. Polina described the main challenge she faced during production:
"The main challenge we encountered was finding Hassan, a farmer living in the region. I first identified his farm through Google Maps, noticing that it was surrounded by a sinkhole field. We travelled to Jordan to locate this spot, and with the help of Fathi, the Jordanian council member also featured in the project, we were able to connect with Hassan."
Documentary Filmmaking: Polina’s Unique Style
Polina's approach to documentary filmmaking is characterized by curiosity and a deep commitment to her subjects. She elaborated on her style and methodology:
"My style of documentary filmmaking is rooted in curiosity and observation. I believe that the best documentaries emerge from a deep interest in the subject matter and a genuine desire to connect with people. In this case, my goal was to shed light on the environmental issues affecting the Dead Sea and to highlight the passion and dedication of people like Hassan, who are committed to farming in challenging conditions."
The Message: What Polina Hopes Viewers Take Away
Polina’s films are more than just a visual narrative; they are a call to action and reflection. She shared her hopes for the audience's experience:
"When viewers watch the films, I hope they connect with Hassan’s passion for farming and the importance of preserving local sources of food, even when they may not be the most profitable options. I want people to feel inspired by the values of dedication, self-reliance, and the connection to the land. The film is meant to encourage viewers to think about the environmental challenges we face and the importance of sustainable practices, even in the face of adversity."
