JanineLeeds Palestinian Film Festival returns this month with its most expansive and ambitious program to date, marking a decade since its launch.
Running from November 8th to December 6th, the festival is set to feature 17 events across 14 venues citywide, offering an extensive range of films, live performances, and cultural workshops.
As the only festival of its kind in northern England and one of only four across the UK, the Leeds Palestinian Film Festival is a unique platform for exploring Palestinian history, art, and heritage. This year’s anniversary program, themed “Ten Years, One Vision – Culture as Resistance,” showcases more films and activities than ever, including music, embroidery workshops, family-friendly crafts, and special guest speakers.
The festival will open at the Howard Assembly Rooms, with East Leeds MP Richard Burgon kicking off the event. The closing night, held at the Civic Hall Banqueting Suite, will include an address by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, and will feature an evening of film, music, and poetry.
“People are universally distressed at the current situation in Palestine/Israel,” said Frances Bernstein, one of the festival’s directors. “Leeds is really fortunate to have this unique programme. It offers a huge variety of ways for people to deepen their understanding and empathy, by exploring unfamiliar and astounding aspects of Palestinian people, culture, and history.”
Bernstein added, “We invite those curious to find out more to take a deep dive into the festival. There is something to tempt everyone. The festival definitely reaches the places other media cannot reach!”
Among the highlights of this year’s lineup are three feature dramas, including a new release by BAFTA-winning director Farah Nabulsi, three hands-on workshops in embroidery and kite-making, five documentaries on topics from foraging to sci-fi, and three events focusing on life in Gaza, including a closer look at the risks faced by journalists reporting from the region.
The festival promises to offer a powerful and multifaceted view of Palestinian culture and resilience, bringing international perspectives to the heart of Leeds.
