Part 1: Roots — Research Complete, Script in Final Review
The first chapter of our documentary series has entered its final scripting phase, with historical consultants Ilan Pappé and Rashid Khalidi providing expert review.
We are excited to announce that Part 1: Roots has completed its intensive research phase and moved into final script review. This first chapter of "In the Shadow of Now" traces the historical foundations of the current crisis, from the late Ottoman period through the British Mandate, the Nakba of 1948, and the establishment of the refugee camps that would define Palestinian life for generations.\n\nOur research team has conducted over 40 interviews with historians, Nakba survivors, and their descendants. The testimony of these witnesses — many sharing their stories publicly for the first time — forms the emotional backbone of this chapter.\n\nHistorical consultants including Professor Ilan Pappé (University of Exeter) and Professor Rashid Khalidi (Columbia University) have reviewed the script for historical accuracy. Their feedback has been invaluable in ensuring we present a rigorous, evidence-based narrative that does justice to the complexity of this history.\n\nKey archival materials secured for this chapter include declassified military planning documents, British Mandate-era correspondence, and rare photographic archives from the 1948 period. Several of these documents have never been presented in a documentary format before.\n\nPart 1 is projected to enter production in Q2 2026, with narration recording sessions planned once the community's top narrator pick has been approached and confirmed.
