The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has announced the official selection of “Palestine 36”, a highly anticipated historical drama written and directed by Annemarie Jacir, to premiere in the Gala Presentations section of its 2025 edition. The film’s world premiere is scheduled for September 5, 2025.

Set in 1936, Palestine 36 takes place during a crucial moment in Palestinian history, when widespread revolts against British colonial rule were erupting across the country. The story follows Yusuf, a young man navigating the tensions between his rural village and the politically charged streets of Jerusalem. As Jewish refugees flee fascist Europe and tensions escalate, Palestine becomes the site of a powerful uprising that reshapes the destiny of the entire region.

About the Film

• Title: Palestine 36
• Director & Screenwriter: Annemarie Jacir (Wajib, When I Saw You, Salt of This Sea)
• Producer: Ossama Bawardi
• Production Company: Philistine Films
• Co-Producers: Corniche, Autonomous, MK Productions, Snowglobe
• Countries of Origin: Palestine, UK, France, Denmark, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan
• Cast Includes: Hiam Abbass, Kamel El Basha, Yasmine Al Massri, Jalal Altawil, Robert Aramayo, Saleh Bakri, Yafa Bakri, Karim Daoud Anaya, Billy Howle, Dhafer L’Abidine, with Liam Cunningham and Jeremy Irons
• Cinematography: Hélène Louvart, Sarah Blum, Tim Fleming
• Editor: Tania Reddin
• Production Designer: Nael Kanj
• Original Score: Ben Frost

Director’s Background

Annemarie Jacir is a trailblazing Palestinian filmmaker and a prominent voice in Arab cinema. She made history as the first Palestinian woman to direct a feature-length film (Salt of This Sea, 2008). Her work has represented Palestine three times at the Oscars and has been showcased at Cannes, Venice, Berlin, and other leading film festivals.

TIFF Premiere Details

• Festival Section: Gala Presentations
• World Premiere: September 5, 2025
• Location: Toronto, Canada

Three official stills from the film have been released. For image use or further details, please contact the production team directly.

As the film prepares for its global debut, all media and communication regarding Palestine 36 are encouraged to follow the official guidelines for messaging and visual materials.