The devastating impact of the 1948 Nakba on the nascent film industry's infrastructure led to a two-decade hiatus. The seventies saw the emergence of political documentaries by directors like Mustafa Abu Ali and Hani El Jawhariyeh playing a pivotal role. Many recordings from this period of Palestinian cinema were looted by the Israeli army during invasions, while others disappeared from the Palestinian Film Unit's Archives.
The First Intifada (1987-1993) marked a significant turning point when Palestinian storytelling found a potent vehicle in the cinema. Veteran directors such as Mai Masri, Elia Suleiman, Michel Khleifi, and Hany Abu Assad began advancing their careers from the diaspora. However, Palestinian filmmakers based in Israel and the occupied territories faced challenges with exploitative Israeli contracts, influencing the film's country of origin and representation at festivals.
The late nineties brought a positive shift, with European cultural funds boosting the exposure of Palestinian productions at international festivals. However, this dynamic wave of interest was abruptly interrupted by the events of 9/11, leading to financial cuts and project delays.
In the 2010s, the emergence of independent filmmaking and the advent of digital technology empowered Palestinian directors to become more self-sufficient. This era saw a resurgence of Palestinian filmmakers, who gained autonomy and worldwide recognition at major international film festivals.
PFFA Through time...
2015, the inaugural PFFA edition themed “Contemporary Palestinian Cinema” exemplifies the grassroots origins of the festival. Executed within two months and a handful of volunteers, it showcased six productions, primarily by female directors but not exclusively. Annemarie Jacir, Khaled Jarrar, Suha Arraf and Mais Darwazah were amongst the participating directors.
2020, the second PFFA edition entitled "Cinema of the Palestinian Revolution''. Showcased the PFFA’s most diverse film programme to date, ranging from restored archival films by the Palestinian Film Unit, documentaries, drama features and sci-fi shorts. Fraturing director, Mohanad Yaqubi and Azza El-Hassan’s, Jumana Manna, Mahasen Nasser-Eldin, Annemarie Jacir, Larissa Sansour, Mai Masri and Nahed Abu Awwad, along with films by Mahdi Fleifel and Muayad Alayan.
2023, PFFA commemorates 75 years of Al Nakba. This was the first edition emanating from an autonomous festival after three years of lockdowns. This edition’s focus was on Palestinian agriculture, landscapes and their disappearance throughout time.
Director Alia Yunis was the 2023 honorary guest and participated in a talk on her documentary The Golden Harvest, followed by an olive oil tasting hosted by Fairtrade Palestine. Amongst the featured directors were Najwa Najjar, Ahmad Saleh, Juna Suleiman, Mohamad Jabaly, Mohammad Al Mughaneh, Dima Abu Gosh, Luay Awwad and Tarzan and Arab Nasser.
Present day ...
This edition of the PFFA focuses on "Dissident Voices," featuring an extensive program of films and talks on Queer Palestinian Cinema and films from Gaza. The four-day event includes a wide selection of feature films, experimental shorts, and fringe activities such as panel talks, poetry recitals, an olive oil tasting, a photo exhibition, and an artisanal market.
Diverse arthouse cinemas across Amsterdam are collaborating to screen films and host activities, aiming to engage with various communities and neighbourhoods in the city.
In 2024, the PFFA expanded into an international team and became a foundation. It has grown into a festival that highlights the vibrant diversity of indigenous storytelling, addresses historical challenges, and contributes to the growth of Palestinian cinema, bringing under-addressed topics to a global audience. Despite the continuing conflict, the PFFA has preserved its artistic vision and significance, remaining committed to its mission of celebrating Palestinian cinema.
