Join BlackStar for Palestine Cinema Days Around the World, with a screening of Return to Haifa followed by a discussion.

This film follows a Palestinian couple who goes back to Haifa after the 1967 war to look for their baby, whom they were forced to leave behind in the war of 1948. They find he’s grown up as an Israeli adopted son and is now a soldier. The film is based on the short novella, Returning to Haifa (1969), by literary giant Ghassan Kanafani. We encourage attendees to read the novella ahead of the event, it is available widely in both Arabic and English online. The post-film discussion will reflect on the film, novel, and history.

Light bites and refreshments will be provided. This event is free to attend.

Film Synopsis

Return to Haifa — trailer
Dir. Kassem Hawal
Drama, 77 min
English and Arabic with English subtitles

A Palestinian couple goes back to Haifa after the 1967 war to look for their baby, whom they were forced to leave behind in the war of 1948. They find him grown up as an Israeli adopted son, now a soldier.

Recommended Reading

The film is based on the short novella, Returning to Haifa (1969), by literary giant Ghassan Kanafani. We encourage attendees to read the novella ahead of the event, available widely in both Arabic and English online.

Visiting Us

Accessibility

The Village of Industry & Art is a historic building with inherited facilities. For ADA access, please enter at the Pine Street Entrance (1431 Pine Street), where a staff member will guide you to the screening room.

If you require an accessible entrance, please contact us at star@blackstarprojects.org

Parking

The Village of Industry & Art is located in Center City. There is no on-site parking available. It is suggested that visitors use SEPTA or rideshare when possible. Uber and Lyfts’ VIA pin will drop you off at 320 S. Broad Street (VIA’s main entrance).