“Palestine 36” by Annemarie Jacir to Premiere at Toronto International Film Festival
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has announced the official selection of “Palestine 36”, a highly anticipated historical drama written and directed by Annemarie Jacir, to premiere in the Gala Presentations section of its 2025 edition on Opening Weekend. The film’s world premiere is scheduled for September 5, 2025.
Set in 1936, Palestine 36 takes place during a crucial moment in Palestinian history, when widespread revolts against British colonial rule were erupting across the country. The story follows Yusuf, a young man navigating the tensions between his rural village and the politically charged streets of Jerusalem. As Jewish refugees flee fascist Europe and tensions escalate, Palestine becomes the site of a powerful uprising that reshapes the destiny of the entire region.
About the Film
- Title: Palestine 36
- Director & Screenwriter: Annemarie Jacir (Wajib, When I Saw You, Salt of This Sea)
- Producer: Ossama Bawardi
- Production Company: Philistine Films
- Co-Producers: Corniche, Autonomous, MK Productions, Snowglobe
In association with: Roya Media Group, Watermelon Pictures
Supported by: The Royal Film Commission, The Jordan Film Fund, Munib & Angela Masri Foundation, Ghiath and Nadia Sukhtian Foundation, The Khalid Shoman Foundation, The Arab Fund for Arts and Culture
And: Michel Sayegh, Fares Sayegh, and Azzam Fakhreddin - Countries of Origin: Palestine, UK, France, Denmark, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan
- Cast Includes: Hiam Abbass, Kamel El Basha, Yasmine Al Massri, Jalal Altawil, Robert Aramayo, Saleh Bakri, Yafa Bakri, Karim Daoud Anaya, Billy Howle, Dhafer L’Abidine, with Liam Cunningham and Jeremy Irons
- Cinematography: Hélène Louvart
- Editor: Tania Reddin
- Production Designer: Nael Kanj
- Original Score: Ben Frost
Director’s Background
Annemarie Jacir has premiered work in Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Telluride, and Toronto. All three features were Palestine’s Oscar entries. Based in Palestine, she collaborates as editor, screenwriter, and producer with fellow filmmakers. She has also been a jury member at numerous festivals, including Cannes and Berlinale.
TIFF Premiere Details
- Festival Section: Gala Presentations
- World Premiere: September 5, 2025
- Location: Toronto, Canada
