Alongside the lineup of feature films, documentaries, and short film series, the festival extends an invitation to engage in discussions with the filmmakers.
ALFILM – Arab Film Festival Berlin is set to commemorate its 15th anniversary this year, with a lineup scheduled to grace the screens from April 24 to 30.
Featuring a diverse selection of 50 feature films, documentaries, and short films, the festival promises audiences a cinematic experience, offering insights into contemporary issues through the lens of Arab filmmakers.
Established in 2009, ALFILM has been steadfast in its mission to bring Arab perspectives to Berlin’s film scene. Over the past 15 years, the festival has curated a rich programme, showcasing films of artistic merit while shedding light on pressing societal issues.
Dedicated to spotlighting Palestinian cinema, ALFILM has consistently provided a platform for Palestinian filmmakers to share their narratives with global audiences.
The festival’s spotlight programme, “Here is Elsewhere: Palestine in Arab Cinema and Beyond,” delves into the complexities of the Palestinian cause, exploring themes of solidarity, self-exploration, and compassionate encounters through a diverse array of Arab and international film productions.
Within the ALFILM Selection, the diversity of contemporary Arab cinema comes to the forefront through film productions spanning the past two years. A dedicated segment titled “Persona non grata” shines a spotlight on the portrayal of individual journeys vulnerable to the intricate dynamics of marginalisation, stigmatisation, and exclusion. These films delve into the intersecting realms of race, gender, and socio-economic status, shedding light on the structures that perpetuate stigma and marginalisation. Moreover, they showcase the resilient spirit of individuals as they strive to defy boundaries, navigate challenges, and reclaim their narratives.
A notable highlight of this year’s edition is the screening of “Palestine – A Revised Narrative,” a 30-minute film comprised of silent clips shot between 1914 and 1918 by British Forces in Palestine. Accompanied by specially crafted sound design by Rana Eid and music composed by Cynthia Zaven, the film offers a perspective on Palestine’s history.
In addition to film screenings, the festival will feature a range of events including panel discussions, masterclasses, and networking sessions. A special panel discussion organised in collaboration with AFRIKAMERA, taking place on Friday, April 27th in Sinema Transtopia, will address Arab and African perspectives in the German film landscape.
The festival will culminate in a closing event featuring live audio-visual performances by Arab and Palestinian artists, promising a memorable conclusion to this year’s celebration.
Opening the festival is the documentary Bye Bye Tiberias by Lina Soualem, which explores the journey of acclaimed actress Hiam Abbass and her family’s history in Palestine. The film has garnered critical acclaim, winning awards at prestigious international film festivals.
Among the other notable films to be showcased are Goodbye Julia by Mohamed Kordofani, 19B by Ahmad Abdalla, The Burdened by Amr Gamal, Machtat by Sonia Ben Slama, and Life is Beautiful by Mohammad Jabaly.
