Filmmaker Scheduled to Appear
A sweeping yet intimate historical epic, Palestine 36 intricately unfolds the story of British colonialism, rewarding viewers with a humanist, clear-eyed act of remembrance. A prerecorded conversation with filmmaker Annemarie Jacir will follow.
In 1936, as the British Empire tightens its grip on Palestine, Yusuf is caught between his village home and his work in Jerusalem. Amidst an anti-colonial revolt and a workers uprising, all sides converge in a decisive moment for the entire region. Weaving together multiple plotlines, empathies, and frames of reference, Annemarie Jacir deftly balances intimate human stories—portrayed by a stellar ensemble cast—with sweeping political history, using rare archival footage to ground the narrative in historical reality. [119 min; drama; Arabic with English subtitles and English]
A prerecorded conversation with filmmaker Annemarie Jacir, unique to IU Cinema, will screen after the film. Jacir has written, directed, and produced over 16 films. Her films have premiered in Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Locarno, Rotterdam, and Toronto. Her second work to debut in Cannes, Salt of This Sea, went on to win the FIPRESCI Critics Award, and 14 other international awards including Best Film in Milan. With a commitment to mentoring, training, and hiring locally, Jacir also teaches, actively promoting independent cinema in the region. Founder of Philistine Films, she collaborates regularly as an editor, screenwriter, and producer with fellow filmmakers.
Presented in partnership with the Department of History and the Department of Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures.
"Palestine 36 is beautifully shot and researched, and peppered with historical touches." — Gregory Nussen, Screen Rant
"At a time when our movies feel as though they’re getting smaller and more meaningless, it’s refreshing to see works of such sweep and ambition." — Bilge Ebiri, New York Magazine/Vulture
"A traditionally realized historical drama with impeccable production value and consistently effective performances." Carlos Aguilar, RogerEbert.com
Any film screened at IU Cinema may contain content that viewers find sensitive or upsetting. Visit our Audience Advisories page to learn more.
