PALESTINE 36 (Arab Film Festival) — SOLD OUT!

1936. As villages across Mandatory Palestine rise against British colonial rule, Yusuf drifts between his rural home and the restless energy of Jerusalem, longing for a future beyond the growing unrest. But history is relentless. With rising numbers of Jewish immigrants escaping antisemitism in Europe, and the Palestinian population uniting in the largest and longest uprising against Britain’s 30-year dominion, all sides spiral towards inevitable collision in a decisive moment for the British Empire and the future of the entire region.

“Set in a time I never lived, Palestine 36 is deeply personal. It’s about ordinary people in extraordinary times. A country erupts into rebellion—and everything, for a moment, feels possible.” – Annemarie Jacir

In 1936, the people of Palestine ignited a revolt that would become the longest anti-colonial uprising in British Empire history. Yusuf is caught between his village home and his work in Jerusalem. Amidst an anti-colonial revolt, and Jewish refugees fleeing persecution from Europe, all sides converge in a decisive moment for the entire region.

One of the first contemporary Palestinian films set in 1936 that embraces a high level of cinematic craftsmanship, Palestine 36 promises to fully immerse audiences in a visually stunning and emotional experience. Palestine 36 had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) where it received a 15 minute standing ovation. Produced by Ossama Bawardi, Palestine 36 features a stellar international cast, including Hiam Abbass, Saleh Bakri, Jeremy Irons, Yasmine Al Massri, Liam Cunningham, Robert Aramayo, Kamel El Basha, and rising stars from the Palestinian diaspora.