For the third consecutive year, the city of Rahat is hosting its renowned Film Festival from February 16 to 19, showcasing a wide range of iconic films from the Mediterranean and the Middle East, suitable for all ages. This is an exceptional opportunity to discover a variety of cinematic works in the largest Bedouin city in Israel, which continues to multiply its cultural initiatives. The opening will take place on Sunday at 6 PM at the Cultural Palace in Rahat, with a screening of the film "Everyone Loves Touda", followed by a discussion with actress Rafia Amsalam. Released in France in 2024, this film tells the story of Touda, who dreams of becoming a Cheikha (a traditional Moroccan artist), singing openly and without censorship songs of resistance, love, and emancipation, passed down through generations. She performs every night in the bars of her small provincial town, under the gaze of men, and nurtures the hope of a better future for herself and her son. Abused and humiliated, she decides to leave everything behind for the lights of Casablanca.
The films will be screened in Hebrew and Arabic, and prestigious guests will be invited, including Israeli and foreign filmmakers. They will offer enriching discussions about the films. It will be a unique opportunity for the Israeli audience to meet rising stars of contemporary cinema.
"This year, we will host distinguished guests and feature eight premieres, which will be followed by discussions between the artists and the audience. We will notably welcome the directors of 'Everyone Loves Touda,' Nabil Ayouch and Maryam Touzani, who will travel from Morocco for the event. We will also host, among others, director Erez Tadmor, Shadi Mari, the lead actor of 'Eid,' which was voted best film of the year at the Jerusalem Film Festival, and director Arik Lubetzki. Furthermore, many Disney films like 'Dumbo' and 'Cinderella' will be dubbed in Arabic," said Daniel Alter, the festival's artistic director.
Among the standout films, there is "Monsieur Aznavour" by Mehdi Idir and Grand Corps Malade, dedicated to the career of the singer; "Eid", which won the best film and best actor awards at the Jerusalem Film Festival, tells the story of a young Bedouin who dreams of emancipation and fights against the constraints of his community; and finally, "The Teacher Who Promised the Sea" by Patricia Font, based on a true story. In 1935, Antonio is accepted as a teacher in a small isolated village in Burgos, Spain. He forms an intense bond with his young students, to whom he makes a promise: to take them to see the sea for the first time in their lives. Seventy-five years later, the granddaughter of another student discovers the wonderful story behind the promise that was never fulfilled.
Additionally, animated and international films will be screened, and several activities will be organized, such as an exhibition on Bedouin art and a tour that includes, among other things, the heritage museum, the new library, the Raha center for visual arts, and a film screening.
"Rahat has become an influential hub in the field of culture and art in Israel, particularly in the Negev. With this festival, it is an opportunity to highlight the city's cultural and creative activities, which are reflected in an ongoing continuity of diverse artistic projects. The Festival is a living proof of the success and positive influence of Rahat on the cultural scene," said the city's mayor, Talal Alkernawi.
"We are happy to welcome the festival audience to Rahat for the third consecutive year. The Rahat Community Center is an institution with a great reputation in the Negev and across the country, not only because of the diverse activities it offers but also as a true cultural anchor," said Foad El Zeadna, director of the Rahat Community Center.
Through its festivals, events, and educational projects, Rahat, the capital of the Negev Desert, has established itself as an important pillar of Israeli cultural influence, where the values of coexistence and diversity are highlighted. Rahat embodies a unique cultural radiance, blending tradition and modernity. A true dynamic center where ancient customs meet contemporary influences, the city is developing creative projects that make it attractive.
To discover the program: booklet.
Caroline Haïat
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