TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — The Palestinian director and actor Mohammad Bakri, known for his efforts to explore the complexities of Palestinian identity and culture, has passed away at the age of 72, according to his family. Bakri's work has left a significant impact on both Arabic and Hebrew cinema, seeking to represent the Palestinian narrative through diverse storytelling.
He gained widespread recognition for directing the documentary "Jenin, Jenin" in 2003, which focused on the destruction caused by an Israeli military operation in the northern West Bank city of Jenin during the second Palestinian intifada. This film emphasized the heavy toll on Palestinian residents and was subsequently banned in Israel due to its perceived bias.
In addition to his directing, Bakri acted in the upcoming film "All That’s Left of You," set to release in 2025, which tells the story of a Palestinian family over a span of 76 years. In this film, he appeared alongside his sons, Adam and Saleh Bakri, both of whom are also actors. Notably, "All That’s Left of You" has been shortlisted for the Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film, further highlighting Bakri's ongoing contributions to cinema.
Throughout his career, Bakri created several films that captured a wide array of Palestinian experiences. He also made appearances in Hebrew-language productions, performing at Israel’s national theater in Tel Aviv and acting in notable Israeli films during the 1980s and 1990s. His academic journey included studies at Tel Aviv University, equipping him with insights that informed his artistic endeavors.
Born in northern Israel and a holder of Israeli citizenship, Bakri engaged with both theater and film forms. His acclaimed one-man show from 1986, "The Pessoptimist," was based on the writings of Palestinian author Emile Habiby and delved into the dualities of having both Israeli and Palestinian identities.
In the 1980s, Bakri played roles in Israeli films that aimed to humanize the Palestinian experience, such as "Beyond the Walls," which is considered a groundbreaking film about the lives of incarcerated Israelis and Palestinians. Raya Morag, a professor specializing in cinema and trauma at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, stated that Bakri challenged stereotypes about Palestinians and presented them as figures deserving of admiration in Israeli society.
Despite his contributions, Bakri faced criticism from within Palestinian society for collaborating with Israelis. His life changed significantly after "Jenin, Jenin," which led to nearly two decades of legal challenges in Israel. The film was particularly contentious, as its content was viewed by many as inciting and unbalanced. In 2022, the Israeli Supreme Court upheld a ban on the documentary and ordered Bakri to pay damages to an Israeli military officer for defamation, further complicating his situation.
Following the release of "Jenin, Jenin," Bakri became a polarizing figure in Israel and found it challenging to find work within mainstream Israeli cinema. Morag noted that he remained true to his principles despite external pressures, becoming a steadfast voice that did not waver over the years.
Local news outlets reported that Bakri died on Wednesday due to heart and lung issues. His cousin, Rafic, expressed that Bakri will be remembered as a tireless advocate for Palestinian rights and that his legacy will endure among Palestinians and supporters of freedom worldwide.
Bakri's passing marks a significant loss in the world of film and advocacy for Palestinian identity, as his contributions continue to resonate across cultures and generations.
