“Palestine 36” outperforms global star-driven films, tops Taj Cinema box office in Jordan

The Palestinian film “Palestine 36”, directed by Annemarie Jacir, continues its strong theatrical run in Jordan, securing the top spot at Taj Cinema box office for the second consecutive week, outperforming international releases led by globally acclaimed, award-winning actors.

The film’s growing audience turnout reflects a clear interest among Jordanian and Arab viewers in cinema that carries human and historical depth.

Set against the backdrop of the Great Palestinian Revolt of 1936, “Palestine 36” tells a compelling story centered on ordinary people navigating extraordinary times, steering away from direct rhetoric or slogans in favor of an intimate, character-driven narrative.

The film features a distinguished cast of Arab and international actors, including Hiam Abbass, Saleh Bakri, and Yasmine Al Massri, and showcases Jacir’s signature visual and dramatic style, which has long set her work apart on the global cinema scene.

Currently, “Palestine 36” is screening in cinemas across Jordan, Egypt, the Gulf countries, Morocco, and Tunisia, in addition to international screenings in Europe and North America. The film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, where it received strong critical acclaim and a warm audience response.

On the festival circuit, the film achieved notable success, winning the Grand Prix at the Tokyo International Film Festival, earning a spot on the shortlist for the European Film Awards, and being selected as Palestine’s official submission for the Academy Awards in the category of Best International Feature Film.

The box office success of “Palestine 36” in Jordan and across the region underscores the ability of Palestinian cinema to compete not only in festivals, but also on a commercial and audience-driven level, reaffirming that viewers continue to seek authentic stories told with cinematic maturity even amid the dominance of large-scale global productions.