Doha, Qatar: Qatar University (QU) Mass Communication student, Haneen Zayed, presents her thought-provoking short documentary titled The War Selfie: Mohammed Al Qadhi (War Correspondent).
The film sheds light on the perilous world of war correspondents, their challenges, and the human aspect of their work. Under the supervision of Dr. Nejude Al Ibrahim, a distinguished lecturer in Broadcast at the Mass Communication Department, Haneen Zayed has delved into the experiences of war correspondents and the dangers they face while covering conflicts, especially in civil war scenarios. The War Selfie summarised the courage and dedication of journalists like Mohammed Al Qadhi, who risk their lives to bring the truth from the frontlines of conflicts like the Yemen War. The documentary aims to provide viewers with an intimate understanding of the realities faced by war correspondents, including their encounters with airstrikes, bombardments, lurking snipers, and the psychological toll of witnessing the suffering of civilian victims, particularly children and women.
In this compelling film, Zayed expertly explores the dilemmas faced by war correspondents while determining what news and images to broadcast. The ethical considerations of broadcasting distressing photos that may impact viewers’ mental states are thoughtfully examined. Furthermore, the film delves into the aftermath of wars, the displacement of civilians, and the lasting effects on daily life.
The choice of the title, The War Selfie, holds significant meaning as it connects to Al Qadhi’s experiences as a war correspondent in Yemen. The word “selfie” denotes a modern form of self-portrait, and in this context, it symbolises Al Qadhi’s documentation of his presence as he bore witness to the events of the Yemen War.
Zayed’s passion for documentaries, especially those focusing on the human aspect of conflicts, served as the inspiration for this project. The powerful connection between journalism and humanitarian work motivated her to embark on directing this short documentary. The tragic loss of the late correspondent Shireen Abu Akleh also played a pivotal role in shaping the research idea, as it highlighted the various psychological and physical dangers war correspondents face. Al Qadhi’s exceptional work as a war correspondent, particularly through Al Jazeera Mubasher, provided a model for the study. His live broadcasts from the battlefronts, showing immense courage and dedication, set him apart from other journalists who relied mainly on newsletters.
The filmmaking process was not without its challenges. Zayed faced difficulties while videotaping at the Al Jazeera Channel building and coordinating schedules with journalists. However, through determination and skill, she managed to create a powerful representation of the realities of war journalism.
The War Selfie is not only an eye-opening portrayal of war media but also a valuable academic resource for media students and researchers. It seeks to understand the complexities of war journalism and the practical implementation of media standards such as objectivity and neutralism. By showcasing the behind-the-scenes realities of war correspondents’ fieldwork, the film provides a unique perspective for its audience.
It compels viewers to contemplate the long-lasting impact of war, both on the journalists who document it and the civilians caught in its crossfire. The documentary serves as a reminder that while a new life may begin after the war, the memories and experiences of those who covered it will endure forever. Mohammed Al Qadhi’s book, The War Selfie, stands as a testament to the events that unfolded during the Yemen War.
