Origin: Palestine, Sweden, France, Canada, Saudi Arabia | Fiction | Director: Rashid Masharawi | 79 minutes

---

Passing Dreams.

Sami’s homing pigeon has escaped. Convinced that the bird has returned to where it was born, the 12-year-old boy persuades his uncle and cousin to accompany him on a journey that begins in a refugee camp in the West Bank and takes them through Bethlehem, Jerusalem’s Old City, and Haifa. Along the way, they meet other Palestinians who share their experiences, perceptions, and aspirations. Through this journey, the absurdity and ingenuity of their daily lives are revealed.

Masharawi’s film highlights everyday Palestinian life amid conflict. Markets bustle, tourists shop, and life continues despite challenges. Filmed on location across the West Bank, the road trip evokes Kiarostami’s style while revealing Sami’s family history, including his father’s imprisonment.

Though optimistic, the film acknowledges Palestinian reality through checkpoints, searches, and military presence. These elements are treated with resignation and occasional humour. Munajim’s bright cinematography enhances the film’s warmth, complemented by strong performances from Barhom as the weary but persistent Kamal and Ayyash as the determined Sami.

“Passing Dreams” is a heartfelt film celebrating kindness and solidarity in adversity, placing hope at its centre with charm and sincerity.

The movie is screened at:
- Arab Film Festival Rotterdam 2025: www.arabfilmfestival.nl/film/passing-dreams/
- Palestinian Film Festival Australia 2025: www.palestinianfilmfestival.com.au
- Festival Ciné Palestine, Paris 2025: https://www.festivalpalestine.paris/en/films-2025?modal_page=video-detail&modal_detail_id=125821-songe-125821

---

View trailer