Palestine, 1936. The uprising that took on an Empire. As villages across Mandatory Palestine rise against British colonial rule, Yusuf drifts between his rural home and the restless energy of Jerusalem, longing for a future beyond the growing unrest. But history is relentless. With rising numbers of Jewish immigrants escaping antisemitism in Europe, and the Palestinian population uniting in the largest and longest uprising against Britain’s 30-year dominion, all sides spiral towards inevitable collision in a decisive moment for the British Empire and the future of the entire region.
Palestine 36 had its premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, receiving a 20 minute standing ovation. The film was selected as the Palestinian entry for the Best International Academy Award at this year’s Oscars, landing on the shortlist.