Reel Palestine Film Festival returns to Cinema Akil at Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue for its 12th edition, running from January 23 to February 1 as part of the Quoz Art Programme. The festival brings powerful Palestinian narratives through 11 feature films, 5 short films, and 29 screenings that authentically represent the community and its culture.
A Special Opening
The festival commences with the UAE premiere of Once Upon a Time in Gaza by Tarzan and Arab Nasser. The award-winning drama, which premiered at Cannes Film Festival, is set in Gaza and follows Yahya as he seeks revenge for his friend, Ossama, who was murdered by a corrupt policeman.
Programme Highlights
The festival will present Academy Award-shortlisted films, Palestine 36 by Annemarie Jacir and All That’s Left of You by Cherien Dabis. Jacir is set to lead an in-person masterclass and a series of post-screening discussions.
Reel Palestine will also bring deeply human stories through feature films and documentaries, including Put Your Soul in Your Hand and Walk by Sepideh Farsi, All That’s Left of You by Cherien Dabis, The Clown of Gaza by Abdulrahman Sabbah, One More Show by Mai Saad and Ahmed Al Danaf, Palestine Comedy Club by Alaa Aliabdallah, and Who Is Still Alive by Nicolas Wadimoff.
Visual Identity Rooted in Heritage
Palestinian artist Rami Afifi created the visuals for the festival, drawing inspiration from traditional Arabic illustrations and the timeless charm of vintage children’s books. The artwork stands as a tribute to Palestine, honoring its culture, its people, and the enduring legacy they continue to carry.
The festival will also host two weekends of the Reel Palestine Souk, bringing together 50 Palestinian designers, and artisans, as well as a series of Q&A sessions and workshops. The souk aims to expand the festival’s reach beyond the cinema into broader cultural and community engagement.
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