Film festivals like TIFF are the perfect opportunity to get your eyes on smaller films where your attention and time can make a major impact. When I attend TIFF, I like to fill my schedule with a mix of buzzy, big name films and smaller, lesser-known films. Last year at TIFF, I made it a priority to take the time to engage with and amplify films that highlight Palestinian stories. I wanted to give my time and attention to these important stories as it deeply aligned with my values. Now in 2026, with the public's attention on Palestine waning - after a false promise of a ceasefire, the murder of countless journalists, and never-ending genocide - it is now all the more important to engage with Palestinian stories and storytellers. It is integral that we amplify these films so that these stories are not lost.
When making my shortlist for TIFF, I came across these 3 feature films that highlight Palestinian stories that peaked my interest. These films span a range of genres and topics - there's something for everybody! I encourage you to check these out and consider adding them to your own TIFF schedule. This is just one way you can make an impact; supporting the fight to keep Palestinian stories and voices at the forefront of our collective attention. Check out my three picks below.
Conversation with the Sea
Conversation with the Sea is a drama following a father faced with a court-order to pay off his son's social security debts, despite his son's death occurring 20 year prior. Desperate to prove his son's death, he must reconnect estranged family and friends who have long-held grudges against him. This film is helmed by Palestinian director, Muayad Alayan, in his fourth feature, and led by Kamel El Basha, who acted in last year's hit, Palestine 36. I was drawn to this film due to is exploration of the complicated nature of grief amidst occupation. The film seems to highlight the violence of occupation as seen through the lens of bureaucracy and systemic violence. What stood out to me in TIFF's description of the film is the line: "How does one mourn a loved one whose body one has never seen?". This is an ever-present, heartbreaking challenge faced by those in Palestine. I am curious to see how this film will capture that complexity.
Thirteen In Gaza
Thirteen in Gaza is a coming-of-age story, following 13-year old Raghad (Mary Ziyara) as she navigates the beginnings of puberty, while living in a refugee camp in Gaza with her father. This is filmmaker Hosam Abu Dan's first narrative feature, previous credits including a short-film (Six Miles Out) and documentary (Gaza Sound Man). I was intrigued by this film as it focuses on the relatable experience of puberty, in contrast with the violence of living under occupation. In mainstream films, coming-of-age stories are often told from a very limited perspective (often White and North American) and as such I am looking forward to Hosam Abu Dan's nuanced take on this topic from a different, much needed lens.
Edward Said: Between Worlds
Edward Said: Between Worlds is a documentary that weaves together archival footage of the Palestinian scholar, Edward Said (well-known for his written works, Orientalism and The Question of Palestine) to reflect on his legacy and the key tenets of his work. Edward Said is such a pillar of scholarship and theory, it feels like a no-brainer that this one would make the top of my list. As someone hoping to engage with more of his work, this film feels like the perfect opportunity to do so. This film is a collaboration between director Maiken Baird (who executive produced the Academy Award winning doc, Icarus), alongside Palestinian-American producers Sarah Mowaswes and Razan Ghalayini. Edward Said's daughter, Najla Said, is also involved as a consulting producer. I believe his stories will be in good hands with a team as stacked as this.
I am very excited to catch these films at TIFF! Each of them reflect a different aspect of the Palestinian experience, through different genres and lenses. Let's give these films some buzz! Which picks are making your list?
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