Palestine is home to one of the most vibrant musical cultures in the Arab speaking world. Bristol Palestinian Film Festival presents an evening of film dedicated to the brilliant musicians emerging from this scene, showcasing their music, perspectives and struggles as they celebrate life through their art and channel their drive for self-determination.

There will be a panel discussion with the director of From Beneath the Earth, Sami Alalul and the director of Voiceless, Sameer Qumsiyeh, hosted by Sally Azzam and Layla Asam.

In addition, there will be a performance by singer-songwriter Layla Assam.

From Beneath The Earth

A documentary film that showcases the work and artistic perspectives of Palestinian musicians in their own words. Featuring Maysa Daw (DAM), Saaleek, Shadi Zaqtan, Apo & the Apostles, and Rasha Nahas. From Beneath the Earth amplifies voices rising from the underground to express both the personal and the political, and explores the intersections that exist at the heart of music created by Palestinian artists.

Voiceless

Reflections on music, passion and politics with Mafar – an alternative rock band from Palestine.

Ambience

In a chaotic refugee camp, two Palestinians failing in their attempt to record a demo for a music competition, find a creative way forward.

There will be a panel discussion with the director of From Beneath the Earth, Sami Alalul and the director of Voiceless, Sameer Qumsiyeh, hosted by Sally Azzam and Layla Asam.

In addition, there will be a performance by singer-songwriter Layla Assam.

Sami Alalul

Sami Alalul is a British born Palestinian film director specialized in documenting stories in a development and human rights context. In 2014 he won the SIMA social impact Award and the Arcus Prize for Social Justice for his short documentary about Dalia Association and its work towards self-determination in development for Palestinians. Most recently he worked with Mideast Tunes, the largest independent platform for music in the Middle East, to create From Beneath the Earth, a short documentary about Palestinian alternative music. He is currently working voluntarily to develop media skills for youth in Jordan.

Sameer Qumsiyeh

Sameer Qumsiyeh is a Palestinian filmmaker based in Bethlehem. He directed, produced, filmed and edited several award winning narrative, short and documentary films. His documentary feature Walled Citizen (2020) had its international premiere at the 32nd Galway Film Fleadh, and was selected for the International Competition at the 40th Kendal Mountain Festival and Won the Stories of the Invisible Youth Award at Terra di Tutti Film Festival. His short Quarantine, Curfew and Videotapes (2020) was labelled Short Film Market Picks at Clermont-Ferrand Short Film Festival 2021.

Layla Assam

Layla Assam is a jazz, neo-soul singer/songwriter who delivers captivating and evocative music from the heart. Inspired by the works of old soul to new R&B, Layla’s mature and jazzy vocals playfully explore human experiences through a unique lens, while lyrically drawing inspiration from her relationships with others, society and her sense of self.