Rooted in independent storytelling, the 10th edition of the annual film festival will showcase a rich panorama of Palestinian stories.
Art has always had a place in the midst of upheaval, allowing creatives an outlet for reflection and self-expression — and making Reel Palestine 2024 especially relevant. Returning to Cinema Akil for its monumental 10th edition, the film festival will take place from 26 January to 4 February, once again showcasing the rich panorama of Palestinian stories through independent and alternative cinema.
For context, Reel Palestine is an annual film festival that brings Palestinian stories to UAE audiences. First held in 2015, it continues to grow as a result of the labour of love driven by the community for sharing stories and heritage through cinema. Presented by Bayt and supported by Bristol and Advanced Media, this year’s visual identity draws inspiration from the Gaza City shield, portraying a poignant symbol of rebirth and renewal reminiscent of the fabled Phoenix that embodies the spirit of a community rising from the ashes. The ten-year milestone of Reel Palestine is thus a reminder of the festival’s commitment, which reflects the enduring Palestinian value of steadfastness.
In solidarity with Gaza, this edition offers a compelling film programme that spans 12 feature films and documentaries, as well as a short film programme across 24 screenings reflecting the resilience, struggles, and triumphs of the Palestinian experience. They will be complemented by a range of masterclasses, workshops, and the annual souk. The festival is set to open with BAFTA-winning director Farah Nabulsi’s latest feature, The Teacher. In addition to the opening night Q&A session after the film, Nabulsi will be in conversation with William Mullally in an interactive discussion titled ‘A Conversation with Farah Nabulsi’ on 4 February.
Select films will also be screened in the presence of their directors, with some joining in for virtual Q&A sessions to give the audience an opportunity to engage in crucial dialogue directly with the creators. The Palestinian narrative is further explored through equally compelling films such as Lyd, which explores the past, present, and potential future of a city that once connected Palestine to the world. Tomorrow’s Freedom will also be screened, capturing the story of the imprisoned Palestinian political leader Marwan Barghout. Directed by Lina Soualem, Bye Bye Tiberias is another unique documentary, questioning the bold choices of her mother, Palestinian actress Hiam Abbass of HBO’s Succession fame.
The line-up also includes screenings of Here & Elsewhere (a documentary transforming original footage into a scathing self-critique) and Slingshot Hip-Hop (a closer look at the emergence of Palestinian hip-hop). Lastly, Reel Palestine’s 10th edition will showcase Jumana Manna’s Foragers, which transports the audience to the historic land of the Golan Heights, the Galilee and Jerusalem through a feature that moves between action, documentary, and archival footage depicting the drama around the practice of foraging in the region.
Additional celebrated films include the documentary Three Promises, which follows a heart-wrenching exploration of the choices faced by families during the second intifada. We No Longer Prefer Mountains, directed by Inas Halabi, is another documentary that unravels the inner politics of the Druze community since 1948, while Aida Returns offers a poignant journey of loss and rediscovery. Reel Palestine will also feature Notes on Displacement to offer a deep dive into the refugee experience that follows the plot of a single family on a gruelling journey.
In addition to the film programme, Reel Palestine 2024 invites cinephiles to participate in a series of masterclasses and workshops that aim to deepen the understanding of the Palestinian narrative and offer unique insights into the cinematic arts. Acclaimed filmmaker Mohanad Yaqubi will lead a thought-provoking session on 3rd Cinema & Trans-Global Solidarity, delving into the intersection of cinema and global movements for justice. Abu Dhabi-based academic Nezar Andary, meanwhile, will explore the intricate relationship between film and propaganda, providing attendees with a nuanced perspective on the power of storytelling in shaping perceptions.
Elsewhere, community space KAVE has curated a diverse range of workshops spanning Palestinian embroidery, children’s book readings, and traditional meals by Haya’s Kitchen to immerse attendees in the cultural richness of Palestine. The upcoming edition will also welcome back the Reel Palestine Souk, returning as the largest market to date with over 50 small local businesses from the region and Palestine — Talleh, Fovero, Art to Heart, and Kenar included. The souk will be open to visitors on both weekends: 27 and 28 January as well as 3 and 4 February.
DSCVR: Reel Palestine. Cinema Akil, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai. @cinemaakil
