“In theaters now”: Mark Ruffalo promotes Palestinian historic drama film
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- Directed by and starring Cherien Dabis, this historical drama follows a Palestinian family over 75 years, from the 1948 Nakba to the present, and serves as Jordan's official submission for the 98th Academy Awards.
- Executive produced by Oscar winners Mark Ruffalo and Javier Bardem, the film was completed in relocation across Cyprus, Greece, and Jordan after being forced to evacuate Palestine just before filming began in late 2023.
Actor Mark Ruffalo is urging support for the theatrical release of All That’s Left of You, a sprawling historical drama that traces the lives of a Palestinian family across three generations, having also taken on duties as an executive producer.
In a newly released video message, Ruffalo, encouraged audiences to seek out the film, which is currently playing in theaters.
Fellow Oscar-winner Javier Bardem is also executive producer.
"It's a deeply moving, epic film about Palestinian lives," Ruffalo stated. "It’s a story we’ve never heard before, but will help us understand how we got here today and how we move forward."
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A 75-Year Journey Through History
Written, directed by, and starring Cherien Dabis, the film is a monumental achievement in contemporary Palestinian cinema.
It spans roughly 75 years of history, weaving together a narrative that begins with the 1948 Nakba and moves through the First Intifada of the 1980s to the present day.
The story follows the Hammad family, specifically focusing on Hanan (played by Dabis) as she recounts her family’s history of displacement, resilience, and survival to her teenage son.
The film features a powerhouse cast, including members of the renowned Bakri acting dynasty—Saleh Bakri, Adam Bakri, and Mohammad Bakri.
Production Against the Odds
The making of All That's Left of You was itself a feat of endurance. Originally slated to begin principal photography in Palestine in late 2023, the production was forced to evacuate just two weeks before filming began due to the outbreak of the Gaza assault.
Director Cherien Dabis eventually relocated the shoot to Cyprus, Greece, and Jordan, transforming the project into what she described as a "container for our outrage, grief, and compassion."
Critical Acclaim and Oscar Buzz
The film has already garnered significant international recognition:
- Jordan's Official Submission for the 98th Academy Awards® (Best International Feature).
- Film Independent Spirit Award nominee.
- Winner of 25 international festival awards, including the Audience Award at the Sydney Film Festival.
Critics have hailed the film as a "profound masterpiece" and a "deeply painful, necessary watch." By centering on the intimate details of family life—weddings, school days, and shared meals—against the backdrop of political upheaval, Dabis offers a humanizing perspective on a conflict often reduced to headlines.
Where to Watch
All That’s Left of You began its North American theatrical run on January 9, 2026, distributed by Watermelon Pictures. It is scheduled to open in the United Kingdom and Ireland on February 6, 2026, via T A P E Collective.
