Art for a cause: support Palestinian cinema in Abu Dhabi

Written by:
Aarti Saundalkar
24th October 2023

Add this to your weekend plans…

421 Arts Campus, a cultural center in Abu Dhabi is hosting a film festival this weekend titled Palestinian Cinema Days. Set to take place from October 26 to 29, the program will showcase films based on Palestinian stories, heritage and identity of the Palestinian people.

Due to the ongoing crisis in Gaza, 421 Arts Campus stated it was ‘crucial to emphasize Palestinian voices at this moment’, and will be donating all the proceeds from the program to the Emirates Red Crescent campaign ‘Tarahum – for Gaza‘.

The recommended contribution is Dhs50. You will also need to register for the films you want to watch here. Do note, you can add to cart for free, but after this, head to emiratesrc.ae/gaza to make your donation. You will need to show your donation receipt to get admission to see the film.

About the films

Above: Alam still

The movies being screened are feature-length films put together by Palestinian filmmakers and directors around the world. The screenings take place in the outdoor plaza from 7pm every evening.

All members of the community are invited to attend, and there will be subtitles in English and Arabic. Take note, some of the films have an age rating.

Day 1 |Alam: Alam follows the story of a Palestinian teenager named Tamer leading a typical teenage life, until one day he is swept off his feet by Maysaa. As he grows closer to her, Tamer agrees to take part in a mysterious and life-changing operation dubbed ‘Alam.’

Day 2 | 200 meters: The film follows the story about a husband and wife split apart by the separation wall. When an accident occurs concerning Mustafa’s son on the other side of the wall, he will do whatever it takes to reach him, even if he has to do it illegally.

Day 3: Foragers: This film showcases the practice of foraging wild edible plants under the impact of Israeli nature protection laws. As a result, many have been fined and put on trial. On one side, the law further alienates Palestinians from their land while the other side claims to insist on their scientific expertise and duty to protect.

Day 4 | Between Heaven and Earth: The film portrays a young couple, Salma and Tamer who decide to go in for a divorce but face a shocking secret that will turn everything upside down.

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Donations

Besides the film screenings, the cultural centre will also be accepting in-kind donations during the four-day film festival from 10am to 9pm. Swipe through the Instagram post below to see what can be donated.