Still from Kismet (2026), directed by Hanadi Elyan.
Still from Kismet (2026), directed by Hanadi Elyan.
Palestine Shorts: Transitions of the Body and Mind
From Gaza to Bethlehem to Boston, these short films tackle themes of movement, freedom, ingenuity, and mortality in modern day Palestine and its diaspora.
Stay tuned after the screenings for a Q and A with Kismet director Hanadi Elyan.
Short Film Program
Kentucky Gaza
Directed by Omar Rammal (Jordan, 2025, 21 min.). Arabic with English subtitles. US premiere.
In a besieged Gaza Anwar turns an irresistible craving for KFC-style fried chicken into a thriving smuggling business, exacerbating the emotional rift between him and his father.
Gaza Bride 17
Directed by Waseem Khair (Palestine, 2025, 21 min.). English and Arabic with English subtitles.
No Other Path
Directed by Laila Khilfeh (Palestine, 2025, 26 min.). Arabic with English subtitles. World premiere.
A Palestinian student in Bethlehem struggles against time and checkpoints on her tense journey back to Nablus, where her concern for loved ones clashes with the limited choices available to her.
Coyotes
Directed by Said Zagha (Palestine, UK, Jordan, and France, 2025, 20 min.). English and Arabic with English subtitles.
A Palestinian surgeon drives home after a long night shift, but little does she know that a commute through a desolate West Bank road will change her forever.
Kismet
Directed by Hanadi Elyan (USA, 2026, 15 min.). English and Arabic with English subtitles. US premiere.
In Boston, a Palestinian immigrant mother counts down the days until she’s reunited with her son, from whom she’s been separated for years, only to experience an unexpected encounter with the Angel of Death.
Wheelchair accessible
With English subtitles
Partner Film Series
The MFA is proud to partner with local organizations to showcase films reflecting the rich variety of cultures and perspectives in and around Boston. These collaborations foster dialogue and bring communities together through a shared engagement with cinema. Views expressed by our film partners are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Museum.
Ticket Information
To order tickets by phone, call 1-800-440-6975 ($6 processing fee applies); to order in person, visit any MFA ticket desk.
Bag Checks
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