Mafish Mushkila
(next project)

"Mafish Mushkila" is a dark comedy film set in 2004 that delves into the complexities of identity and the Israeli Zionist occupation. Through the journey of an unlikely protagonist, the film navigates the blurred lines between nationalities, cultures, and ideologies, ultimately challenging viewers to confront the realities of life under occupation.

The film follows the story of Abed, a middle-aged German man leading an ordinary life in Germany with his wife and two children. Despite his Palestinian heritage, Abed has distanced himself from his roots, fully embracing his German identity. However, his world is turned upside down when he receives a letter informing him of the death of a distant family member in Gaza, compelling him to embark on a reluctant journey to the Middle East.

Upon arriving in Tel Aviv, Abed is confronted with the harsh realities of the Israeli occupation as he navigates checkpoints and security screenings. Despite the inherent dangers, his German passport affords him a degree of privilege and protection, shielding him from the worst of the harassment faced by Palestinians.

As Abed makes his way towards Gaza, he encounters Yoni, a troubled 14-year-old Israeli settler grappling with his own identity and the moral implications of his upbringing. Yoni is struggling with his LGBTQ+ identity and the role of Israel in pinkwashing its human rights violations.

Tragically, Yoni's internal conflict leads him to contemplate suicide, capturing his emotional turmoil on a camcorder. When Abed accidentally runs over Yoni's lifeless body, their fates become intertwined, setting off a chain of events that force Abed to confront his own complicity in the perpetuation of the occupation. As Abed journeys deeper into Gaza with Yoni's body in his trunk, he encounters a diverse array of characters from all walks of life, each offering a unique perspective on the occupation. Through these interactions, Abed confronts his own prejudices and preconceptions, ultimately coming to terms with his Palestinian heritage.

Approach:

As the writer and director of "Mafish Mushkila," my approach to making the film is rooted in a desire to explore complex social and political issues through the lens of dark comedy. By infusing the narrative with humor and irony, I aim to engage audiences in a thoughtful exploration of themes that are often fraught with tension and emotion.

Through the juxtaposition of Abed's personal journey with the broader backdrop of the Israeli Zionist occupation, I seek to challenge viewers to confront their own assumptions and biases, fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience under occupation.

Above all, "Mafish Mushkila" is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to bridge divides and foster empathy in an increasingly polarized world. Through the medium of film, I hope to spark meaningful conversations about the complexities of identity, belonging, and the pursuit of justice in a region plagued by occupation.