Tuesday, April 21, 6:30 p.m. | 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 Jewish refugees fleeing persecution from Europe, all sides converge in a decisive moment for the entire region.
Preceded by:
FIRST LIEUTENANT
2025, dir. Dareen Ghazzawi, 15 min, Palestine, In Arabic with English subtitles
This gripping short film tells the story of Mohammad Jadallah, a 104-year-old man from Sur Baher, Jerusalem, who lived through Al Nakba and fought in multiple battles for Palestine. Central to his memories is the Battle of Al Qastal and his personal connection to Abdel Qader al-Husseini, a key symbol of Palestinian resistance. Through Mohammad’s vivid recollections, the film captures a rare, living testimony of struggle, sacrifice, and resilience spanning over a century.
Chicago Palestine Film Festival | April 11–25, 2026
Founded in 2001, the Chicago Palestine Film Festival (CPFF), a program of the Middle East Charitable and Cultural Society Inc., a non-profit organization, is an annual cultural event that serves as a vibrant platform for showcasing the rich and diverse narratives of Palestinian cinema. Film synopses provided by CPFF. Learn more at palestinefilmfest.com.
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu