Dugri: Talking Straight in a Fractured Land

Dugri: Voices Straight Talk in a Fractured Land (working title) follows the extraordinary partnership between Israeli educator Uriya Rosenman and Palestinian rapper Sameh Zakout, who challenge long-held cultural narratives with raw, unfiltered dialogue. Their viral 2021 rap battle “Let’s Talk Straight” sparked international attention, leading them to tour the U.S., where they aimed to foster Jewish-Arab understanding through music. As their relationship deepens, the documentary highlights the nuanced realities of their lives—Uriya’s journey from a military background to education, and Sameh’s legacy of Palestinian activism.

However, the recent Gaza War and October 7th attacks push their friendship to the breaking point. As Uriya mourns the loss of close friends from the Nova Rave massacre and IDF soldiers, he struggles with his identity, torn between his academic pursuits and his roots as a Zionist. Meanwhile, Sameh confronts the rising wave of anti-Palestinian sentiment, mourning relatives lost in Gaza and channeling his pain into new music. The documentary captures their raw emotions and struggles as they grapple with personal and political upheaval, offering a rare, candid look into two men on opposite sides of a deeply entrenched conflict.

Status

Currently in production, the film is seeking funding for completion. Filming has been underway, and post-production is set to begin soon. Key scenes, including the U.S. tour and recent personal reflections in the aftermath of the October 7th attacks, have already been captured.

Team

David Blumenfeld (Director/Producer)
Emmy-nominated filmmaker David Blumenfeld brings 25 years of experience covering the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a photojournalist and documentary producer. His past work includes projects with Newsweek, ViceNews, BBC, 60Minutes, and most recently, the New York Times.

Market Opportunity

Dugri is a timely documentary, addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from a deeply personal, human perspective, appealing to audiences worldwide. Its relevance has been amplified in the aftermath of recent geopolitical events, and the film’s direct, unflinching narrative holds appeal for a diverse range of viewers, from political scholars to music lovers. The film is poised to resonate at international film festivals such as Cannes, Tribeca, and Sundance, which embrace politically charged, human-interest documentaries. It’s also suitable for educational screenings, community events, and peace-building initiatives.

Audience and Demographics

• Primary Audience: Ages 25-45, politically engaged viewers interested in global conflicts and social justice.
• Secondary Audience: University students and educators in peace studies, Middle Eastern studies, and international relations.
• Music fans, especially those engaged in hip-hop, who appreciate the power of lyrics and music to transcend borders.
• Human rights advocates and non-profit organizations focused on conflict resolution.

Geographic Targeting

The film has strong potential across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, with particular resonance in regions grappling with socio-political conflict. Its themes of peace and reconciliation will appeal to international audiences eager to explore solutions for long-standing divisions.

Shooting Locations

Key scenes have been filmed in the U.S. (tour footage), Israel (Jerusalem, Tel Aviv), the West Bank, and Gaza. Harvard University serves as a crucial location, reflecting Uriya’s academic transition and the philosophical discussions surrounding peace.

Unique Selling Points

• Raw and Unfiltered Dialogue: The frank conversations between Uriya and Sameh are a unique selling point, offering insight into two sides of a bitter conflict rarely captured with such authenticity.
• Music as a Medium for Change: The film highlights how art, particularly hip-hop, can bridge cultural divides and communicate across borders.
• Timely and Topical: Given the ongoing conflict and heightened tensions, Dugri addresses urgent global issues in real time, making it relevant for news outlets and film distributors.
• Powerful Personal Stories: Uriya and Sameh’s friendship and their respective struggles offer audiences an emotionally charged, personal connection to the broader geopolitical narrative.

Similar Films

Comparable to other documentaries that tackle deep-rooted political issues and human stories, including The Gatekeepers (2012), 5 Broken Cameras (2011), and Born in Gaza (2014). The film’s use of music as a unifying force also draws parallels with Exit Through the Gift Shop (2010) in terms of the intersection between art and activism.

Release of Film: Projected Release

With sufficient funding, the film is projected to be completed by mid-2025, with a premiere scheduled at major film festivals later that year.