Today on the show, we welcome director and producer of Italian and Palestinian descent, Vin Arfuso, whose directorial debut film Walled Off is co-produced by Palestinian American model and musician Anwar Hadid, and a star-studded collaboration that includes Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters. 

The documentary screened  in October to raving reviews in Italy and NY, and follows their journey through occupied Palestine, and, as they explore the Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem, owned the iconic and anonymous British artist Banksy. 

The film intertwines the timeline of the occupation through art and sheds the lens on the harsh reality of the occupation along with the documentaries powerful capture of the faces, voices and firsthand account of Palestinian children as they share their personal stories growing up and living under occupation.

We discussed the inspiration behind the film, Vin and Anwar's first trip to Palestine and the most challenging and most powerful moments experienced behind the camera, during production in Palestine.

We also discuss Walled Off's success in artistically challenging the Western media narrative regarding Palestine and depicts the absurdity of the occupation. 

We tap into Vin's childhood and what led to his activism, how he deals with any Israeli backlash, and what impact he wishes resonates with the audience as they watch Walled Off. 

Upcoming screening planned in Doha, Qatar and we discuss additional screening dates and official release on screening platforms.