Attention cinephiles: The Reel Palestine film festival is back for its 10th edition and this time, it is dedicated to the people of Gaza. Taking place in Dubai’s Cinema Akil from Jan. 6 to Feb. 4, the annual event will serve as a tribute to the Palestinian people and their unwavering resilience, with films telling the Palestinian story and uplifting the occupied country through its struggle and resistance.
Reel Palestine’s unwavering commitment to the enduring Palestinian value of “sumud,” meaning steadfastness, is beautifully embodied in its diverse selection of films. This year’s lineup boasts a compelling selection of 12 feature films and documentaries, complemented by an engaging short film program. As a treat for cinephiles, the festival will also feature masterclasses, workshops, and an annual souk showcasing Palestinian businesses and organizations.
The opening night sets the tone with the screening of Farah Nabulsi’s latest feature, The Teacher. The festival delves into the Palestinian collective narrative with films such as the harrowing survival tale of Palestinian city Lyd through its ravaged ages, Tomorrow’s Freedom: Marwan Barghouti, the exploration of refugee journeys in Notes on Displacement, enduring family bonds in Bye Bye Tiberias, cross-continental experimentation in solidarity with R21 by Mohanad Yacubi, tattered recollections of fading memory in Aida Returns, the surreality of geographic isolation in We No Longer Prefer Mountains, and the hardened exhale in Three Promises by first-time filmmaker Yusef Srouji.
Select films will have directors present in person, and virtual Q&A sessions will be available for others after their screenings. Additionally, two public non-ticketed outdoor screenings are scheduled at the Quoz Arts Fest in the Yard at Alserkal Avenue and Cinema Akil’s new outpost at 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central.
Tickets for Reel Palestine are priced at AED 52.50 (excluding VAT), excluding the entry fee for the Quoz Arts Fest on Jan. 27 and 28. Secure your tickets at www.cinemaakil.com, where you can also explore the complete festival calendar.
