Tagline:

When a Palestinian returns to Jenin Camp, a family reunion turns heated ahead of an Israeli invasion. Based on real events, this drama tackles Palestinian identity and resistance with a humorous punch.

Synopsis:

It’s July 2023 and Aaliyah is in Jenin Refugee Camp—visiting her cousins Bilal and Mahmoud after a 2-year absence. Her girlfriend Mara, in Palestine for the first time, has just arrived. On their way to celebrate Mahmoud’s birthday, they drive into the heart of the camp, passing destruction—badly built buildings, broken roads, rubbish piles—as well as landmarks of Palestinian resistance: the Freedom Theatre and walls of martyrs.

At the top of the camp’s hill, a celebratory reunion with maqluba, mint tea, Dabke, and music develops into an argument about what it means to resist, triggered by Bilal’s upcoming show. Aaliyah insists on marking Mahmoud’s birthday with a cake and a group photo. Her attempts are interrupted by a fresh Israeli invasion. Gunshots fill the air, Mahmoud prepares to fight, taking his AK-47. The others remain silent—left only with his birthday cake.

Aaliyah, in her 20s, was born in Jenin camp and emigrated to London at age 6. Mara, also in her 20s, is Portuguese but London-based. Bilal and Mahmoud are Aaliyah’s cousins and lifelong Jenin residents. Bilal, in his 40s, values art as resistance; Mahmoud, in his 20s, is part of an armed group. There is palpable chemistry between Mahmoud and Mara.

Representatives:

Nadia Dawber (Director and Writer)

Maria Torres (Director and Writer)