Posted 8 months ago in Trending, Things to Do, Chicago Palestine Film Festival , Film, Gene Siskel Film Center, Arts & Culture
5 MIN READ – Returning to Gene Siskel Film Center for its 20th consecutive year, the Chicago Palestine Film Festival (CPFF) launches its 23rd annual festival to showcase the culture, vibrancy, and talent of Palestinian film and filmmakers. The annual Chicago Palestine Film Festival, scheduled from April 20 to May 4, is poised to captivate audiences with a diverse selection of thought-provoking cinematic works.
This annual event serves as a platform for Palestinian filmmakers to showcase their compelling narratives, shedding light on the complexities of Palestinian life and culture. CPFF is the world’s longest running festival of its kind. Each year, CPFF welcomes hundreds of attendees from Chicago and beyond to celebrate Palestinian life and elevate Palestinian stories.
“This year, the Gene Siskel Film Center celebrates 20 years as a host venue for this vital Chicago film festival," says Gene Siskel Film Center Director of Programming Rebecca Fons. "CPFF's powerful and expansive program of diverse voices and perspectives creates dialogue and community connection. As they mark their 23rd festival, we are again honored to work with their dedicated team as they bring to our screens Palestinian stories and storytellers."
The festival opens with the award-winning film BYE BYE TIBERIAS, by director Lina Soualem. This powerful film, which follows the journey of Hiam Abbas, acclaimed Palestinian actress (and Soualem's mother), is Palestine's official submission to the 2024 Academy Awards for Best International Film Feature. Opening night sold out in a record three hours and an encore of the opening night films was added due to high demand. The program also includes a guest visit from Oscar-nominated human rights advocate and filmmaker Farah Nabulsi, and a screening of her new award-winning film THE TEACHER. Other films include Erin Axelman and Sam Eilertsen’s film ISRAELISM (followed by a panel discussion); TOMORROW’S FREEDOM, directed by Sophia and Georgia Scott; YALLAH GAZA directed by Roland Nurier; FADIA’S TREE directed by Sarah Beddington; and THREE PROMISES directed by Yusef Srouji. CPFF is excited to welcome director Rami Younis to Chicago as his long-awaited film LYD is featured on closing night. The festival is presenting twenty-one films total including an array of shorts highlighting the work of filmmakers around the globe.
“As we return to the Gene Siskel Film Center for our 20th year, and mark the 23rd year of Chicago Palestine Film Festival, we are reminded of the long history of contributions made by both Palestinian and non-Palestinian filmmakers who have demonstrated a commitment to telling Palestinian stories. The demand to watch and support films about Palestine is at an all time high and it is our pleasure to provide this opportunity to our Chicago audience,” said CPFF Executive Director, Nina Shoman-Dajani.
With a lineup encompassing a range of genres, including documentaries, narratives, and shorts, the festival promises to offer attendees a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences. From intimate portrayals of daily struggles to poignant reflections on identity and resilience, each film contributes to a deeper understanding of the Palestinian narrative. Through screenings, discussions, and community engagement, the festival fosters dialogue and awareness surrounding issues central to the Palestinian experience, making it a must-attend event in Chicago.
CPFF is dedicated to presenting a film festival that is open, critical, and reflective of the experiences and vision of the filmmakers. Since 2001, CPFF has served as a hub of culture and art for Palestinians in Chicago, while also bringing the stories of Palestine to broader audiences.
This festival is open to the public and tickets can be purchased online at the Gene Siskel Film Center website or in person at the box office (164 N. State Street, Chicago, IL, 60601). Purchasing tickets in advance is encouraged.
For full film schedule and tickets visit PalestineFilmFest.com.
