FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
From Prison to Palestine: Viral Doc $17.74 to Premiere Digitally on September 24 on Al Jazeera and Watermelon +
LOS ANGELES, CA — [September 2, 2025]— A story that began behind prison walls and captured the world’s attention now comes to the screen. $17.74, the critically acclaimed documentary film that sparked headlines in The Washington Post, TRTWorld, and The Guardian, will premiere globally on September 24 via Al Jazeera DigiDocs (YouTube and website) and streaming service Watermelon+.
Directed by Emmy award-winning filmmaker Justin Mashouf, “$17.74” chronicles the unlikely journey of a former gang member incarcerated since the 1980s, whose small act of compassion for the people of Gaza transcended prison walls and ignited a viral movement of solidarity and hope. Told through raw, cinematic storytelling, the film offers an intimate portrait of how one man’s humanity bridged borders from behind bars.
“This film reminds us that even in the harshest of places, compassion is a light that can break through concrete, steel, and all forms of evil and darkness,” says Mashouf. “It's about dignity and global connection between struggles for justice.”
Following its festival run—screening at four international festivals, including the Oscar-qualifying American Documentary Film Festival—$17.74 arrives at a watershed moment with a riveting, timely message, igniting urgent global conversations on justice, liberation, and the shared human struggles.
Munir Atalla, Head of Acquisitions and Production at Watermelon Pictures, calls it “a beautifully told story that is a testament to the enduring solidarity of Black Americans with Palestinians, and a reminder of how acts of compassion can bridge even the most entrenched divides.”
About Al Jazeera DigiDocs
Al Jazeera DigiDocs is the digital documentary platform of Al Jazeera English, showcasing bold, thought-provoking films from around the world. It brings untold stories and fresh perspectives to global audiences, challenging perceptions and sparking dialogue.
About Watermelon+
Watermelon+ is a streaming platform amplifying bold voices from marginalized and underrepresented communities. From award-winning documentaries to hidden gems, Watermelon+ delivers stories that inspire, engage, and entertain.
For more information, visit 1774film.com.
