Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
- Snipped explores the universal human experience of coexistence through humor and shared cultural rituals.
- Laughter and collaboration were key during production, turning heavy subjects into moments of trust and relief.
- The film’s heart lies in its original score, a blend of Muslim and Jewish musical influences, symbolizing harmony and tension.
Alexander Saul, director and writer of Snipped, brings us a film rooted in personal experience and universal themes. With a talented team including Oscar-nominated producer Rebecca Pruzan and Oscar-winning producer Kim Magnusson, the film is set to make a splash at this year’s HollyShorts Film Festival. Shot entirely in Denmark, Snipped offers a unique perspective on Jewish-Muslim relations, aiming to soften tensions through humor and shared humanity.
Interview with Alexander Saul
What inspired you to create Snipped ?
This film began with something very personal. I had just undergone a ritual circumcision as part of my conversion to Judaism. It was a mix of fear, pride, and exposure—an intense experience that ended in an unexpectedly peaceful and humorous encounter. Both Rebecca [Pruzan] and I come from Jewish backgrounds, and yet we saw something universal in what happened. Humor is essential; it breaks down barriers.
What surprised you most during the filmmaking process?
Making a film about a serious subject—but laughing through production. There is so much humor in the film, and that humor was present throughout the shoot, even in the most awkward moments. It showed me that laughter can be a form of trust and collaboration.
“Humor is essential for coexistence to be possible. Humor breaks down barriers.”
Is there a moment in the film that feels the most you?
When we recorded the original music with Henrik Goldschmidt, a Danish Jew, and Bilal Irshed, a Danish Palestinian. Watching them play together was powerful. Their presence, generosity, and mutual respect gave the film a heartbeat I hadn’t imagined before.
What do you hope audiences take away from your film?
That Jews and Muslims already coexist—even amid political tensions. We must talk about our similarities, not just our opposition. This film is a success story in the fight against polarization.
What’s a key creative insight you gained?
A lot of creativity comes out of dogmas. You’re forced to do things in a new way, and sometimes, something better comes out of it.
“This film only exists because of the cast, crew, and consultants who, despite working for free, brought unmatched dedication, talent, and heart to every step of the process.”
How does it feel to be selected for HollyShorts?
It's a great honor for us. The festival reaches a broad audience—exactly what this film needs. It’s not just for minorities; it’s meant for everyone.
What’s next for Snipped?
We aim to reach multicultural societies, institutions, and communities. The film is meant for classrooms, dialogue events, and anywhere people are trying to build bridges instead of walls.
Main Cast and Crew
- Cast: Louis Bodnia Andersen, Nicolas Bro, Ellaha Lack, Imad Abul-Foul, Sami Darr & Jan Karwowski
- Director & Writer: Alexander Saul
- Producers: Rebecca Pruzan, Kim Magnusson
- Cinematographer: Jonas Møller
- Editor: Mira Thu
- Sound Design: Mads Hølmer
- Original Score: Henrik Goldschmidt, Bilal Irshed, Rosanna Lorenzen, Anders Singh Vesterdahl
Presented by M&M Productions, in association with Filmworkshop Copenhagen, Jorck’s Fond, Shoni Productions, and Finite Films.
Follow the film on Instagram at @snipped_shortfilm and on Facebook at Snipped - Short Film.
