An epic and deeply human film about the beginnings of Palestinian emancipation—an underrepresented yet crucial chapter in world history. Director Annemarie Jacir (Wajib) may well have created the most ambitious Palestinian production ever: a cinematic achievement brought to life under extreme circumstances, in the midst of an ongoing war.

In 1936, the British Empire tightens its grip on Palestine. Yusuf is caught between his village and his job in Jerusalem, where Palestinian journalists are trying to document the truth as censorship and repression intensify. His friend Khalid becomes radicalized and joins the growing resistance, while others struggle to survive amid fear and hope. All sides converge at a decisive moment for the entire region, amid an anti-colonial uprising whilst Jewish refugees flee persecution in Europe.

As clashing ideals inevitably lead to armed conflict between Palestinian freedom fighters and brutal British officers, Palestine 36 shows the growing resistance of ordinary people in the struggle for autonomy and their very survival. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was selected as the Palestinian entry for the Oscars.