Falasteen on Film

Gaza, 2007. Yahya, a young student, forges a friendship with Osama, a charismatic restaurant owner with a big heart. Together, they start peddling drugs while delivering falafel sandwiches, but they are soon forced to grapple with a corrupt cop and his oversized ego…

Set in 1936, Palestine ’36 follows Yusuf, a man caught between his village and his work in Jerusalem as anti-colonial resistance grows under the tightening grip of the British Empire. Against this backdrop, Jewish refugees fleeing persecution in Europe arrive in Palestine, and all sides converge in a moment that will shape the region’s future. Jacir’s film is an evocative portrait of people navigating belonging, identity, and resistance during a time of immense change. Her drama offers a gripping account of a critical moment in Palestinian history, brought to life by a stellar ensemble cast that includes Hiam Abbass, Jeremy Irons, and Saleh Bakri.

THE ENCAMPMENTS is a brave and powerful new documentary following the Palestine solidarity protests that erupted across university campuses in 2024. With gripping footage of the protesters’ struggle, the film shows the peaceful nature of the movement and the momentous challenges it faces. Featuring detained activist Mahmoud Khalil, alongside professors, whistleblowers and organisers, the film captures the deeper stakes of a historic moment that continues to reverberate across the globe. Timely, urgent and filled with a clear-eyed fury, THE ENCAMPMENTS is a rallying cry for those who refuse to be silenced and a message of hope for the people of Palestine.

Produced within the ‘Cinema and Solidarity’ research project, the films explore co-resistance, particularly by students of Palestinian or Jewish heritage. These diverse and brave works offer unique insight into activism and cross-cultural solidarity. They reflect the students’ rich experiences and perspectives which drew them to the political movement opposing the ongoing genocide.