Neon Acquires Distribution Rights for Documentary NAZA
The distributor will expand the reach of the award-winning film featuring accounts from Israeli military members.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Documentary
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Neon has joined the distribution efforts for the documentary NAZA, which captures anonymous interviews with 24 members of the Israeli military. The film examines Israeli airstrikes in Gaza and the deaths of Palestinian civilians.
Why it matters
The acquisition by Neon aims to broaden the documentary's audience after it already secured distribution plans in 50 countries. The move highlights the growing international reach of the project, which previously won the special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival.
The documentary is currently screening in 85 theaters across 30 cities. It has generated over $500,000 in U.S. ticket sales in less than two weeks.
The players
Neon
This American independent film production and distribution company is known for bringing acclaimed international and domestic documentaries to wider audiences.
Jonathan Glazer
He is an acclaimed filmmaker and executive producer who serves as a key creative force behind the documentary project.
The Guardian
This major British news organization produced the documentary as part of its expanding investigative and long-form visual journalism division.
MK2 Films
This French film company handles international sales and distribution negotiations for high-profile cinema projects.
The details
Produced by The Guardian in association with JW Films, Placeholder Films, and Unseen Hand, the film provides a critical look at the conflict in Gaza. Executive producer Jonathan Glazer and the production team are working with Neon to extend the film's theatrical footprint before its transition to digital streaming.
Timeline
September 30: The documentary premiered in the U.S.
November: The Guardian will begin streaming the film for free on its website.
Industry Dynamics
This move follows the 2024 distribution landscape for independent documentaries, signaling a shift in how news organizations partner with commercial distributors. It reflects a wider trend where critical festival winners secure tiered releases that bridge theatrical runs with free, accessible digital platforms.
Viewers can currently find the film in select theaters across 30 cities as the distribution footprint expands. Those unable to attend a screening will gain access to the documentary for free when it arrives on The Guardian website in November.
The takeaway
The partnership between a major news entity and a specialized distributor highlights new pathways for documentary accessibility. Audience members can track upcoming showtimes to catch the film in theaters before its planned free digital release.
Further reading
For more coverage on emerging non-fiction cinema, visit the Documentary section.
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