Amid mounting diplomatic tensions, Jordan has pulled its official Oscar submission, the documentary My Sweet Land, following pressure from Azerbaijan. This move has stirred significant controversy in international film and political circles.
Jordan’s decision to withdraw My Sweet Land as its submission for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards comes after Azerbaijan voiced strong objections. The documentary, directed by Sareen Hairabedian, highlights the poignant story of 11-year-old Vrej from Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), aspiring to become a dentist despite the region’s turmoil.
Reports indicate that Azerbaijan’s government reached out to Jordan’s Foreign Ministry, expressing their discontent with the film’s sympathetic portrayal of displaced Armenians. This diplomatic push ultimately led Jordan’s Royal Film Commission to retract its submission, leaving the country without a contender in this Oscar category.
Controversy Surrounding the Documentary
My Sweet Land has garnered international acclaim, winning three awards at the Amman International Film Festival in July 2024: the Jury Award for Best Arab Documentary, the Audience Award, and the International Film Critics Award (FIPRESCI). Its premiere at Sheffield DocFest in the UK further cemented its reputation, earning a nomination for the International First Feature Award.
However, the film’s depiction of the Armenian experience in Artsakh has not been well-received by Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani embassy’s complaint following the film’s screening in Amman highlights the sensitive nature of regional conflicts and their impact on cultural expressions.
- Film Title: My Sweet Land
- Director: Sareen Hairabedian
- Subject: Vrej, a boy from Nagorno-Karabakh
- Awards Won: Jury Award, Audience Award, FIPRESCI at Amman International Film Festival
- Controversy: Sympathetic portrayal of displaced Armenians opposed by Azerbaijan
Filmmakers React to the Withdrawal
Director Sareen Hairabedian and producer Azza Hourani have expressed deep disappointment over the withdrawal. “This is devastating news for our team. An emotional, intimate story of a child’s love for his home and family has been banned and silenced,” they stated. Their commitment to sharing Vrej’s story remains unwavering, as they prepare to submit the film for Best Documentary Feature consideration.
The filmmakers plan a qualifying run in the U.S., with a North American premiere at DOC NYC on November 16 and 17, followed by a theatrical release at Laemmle Theatres in Los Angeles starting November 29. “We remain committed to sharing our truthful story, undeterred by the obstacles we face,” they affirmed.
Impact on Jordan’s Cultural Diplomacy
Jordan’s withdrawal reflects the delicate balance the country maintains in its diplomatic relations. While promoting cultural achievements like My Sweet Land, Jordan must navigate the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, where artistic expressions can become flashpoints for broader conflicts.
Economic and Cultural Implications:
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Cultural Diplomacy | Strained relations with Azerbaijan |
| Film Industry | Potential loss of international recognition |
| Tourism and Soft Power | Reduced visibility in global cultural forums |
| Future Collaborations | Hesitancy from other nations to engage culturally |
The decision underscores the challenges Jordan faces in promoting its cultural exports amidst regional disputes. Balancing national interests with cultural expression remains a persistent challenge for the kingdom.
Future Prospects for the Filmmakers
Despite the setback, Hairabedian and Hourani are determined to ensure My Sweet Land reaches a global audience. By pursuing the Best Documentary Feature category, they aim to bypass the political hurdles and highlight the human stories behind geopolitical conflicts.
Their resilience is a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking in shedding light on underrepresented narratives. As they navigate the complexities of international film submissions, their focus remains on the universal themes of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams amidst adversity.
