Phoenix and Mara back Cannes-winning Palestinian short ‘I’m Glad You’re Dead Now’

Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara are on board as executive producers for "I'm Glad You're Dead Now", the Palestinian short film that took home this year's Cannes Film Festival Short Film Palme d'Or.

Written, directed, and co-starring Tawfeek Barhom, the 13-minute drama is a co-production between Palestine, France and Greece. The cast also includes Ashraf Barhom. The narrative follows two brothers who return to their childhood island, only to discover buried tensions and painful secrets that bind them tightly to their past.

Phoenix praised the film for its emotional urgency. "This is a film that confronts memory, trauma, and reconciliation in a way that feels urgent and necessary today," he said. "I'm proud to be part of its future." Mara echoed his sentiments, adding, "From the moment I saw 'I'm Glad You're Dead Now', its emotional weight and restrained power stayed with me. I am honoured to support Tawfeek's vision and the film's continuing journey."

Barhom expressed gratitude over their support: "I am deeply moved that Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix have chosen to stand with this film and its story. Their belief honours the film's spirit, and their creative support will be invaluable as we take 'I'm Glad You're Dead Now' to wider audiences."

According to producers, Phoenix and Mara will help promote the piece through festival appearances, press engagements, and strategic partnerships to amplify its impact.

The film is produced by Kidam (France) and Foss Productions (Greece). Kidam is known for "Zero F*** Given", which premiered in Critics' Week at Cannes in 2021, while Foss Productions has credits in films such as Suntan, Pity, and Echoes of the Past. The production team includes Tawfeek Barhom, Akis Polizos, Stylianos Kotionis and Alexandre Perrier.

"I'm Glad You're Dead Now" will screen at the Doha Film Festival later this month, marking another step toward wider recognition in the international festival circuit.