The Palestinian

This movie is a great historical documentary which goes far in giving the viewer a sense of the Palestinian question as it existed in 1977. I saw it in 1979 and remember it still. While the politics have become more complex by post-1977 Israeli policy, it does a succinct job of humanizing an issue which is oversimplified by sensationalism and allegiances in the Middle East, and is a "must see" for anyone who wishes to understand the Palestinian people as genuinely motivated by essential human needs. It also gives the viewer a sense of continuity with respect to the events of 9/11. What if we failed to take into account a basic respect for the human condition for 30 years, and thus missed an opportunity to diffuse a wellspring of escalating cries for help? The Palestinian is a documentary which, in retrospect, is such a harbinger.

This documentary is a poignant and thought provoking presentation of the tragedy of the Palestinians, a people who who have been oppressed and subjugated in the name of "justice" for another people, the Jews of the Diaspora(exile). It is masterfully narrated by one of the finest stage and screen actresses of our time, Vanessa Redgrave. Her exuberant theatrical voice is so convincing of the need for our understanding to the plight of a proud and noble people who have been denied their right to self-determination by a military occupation backed by special interest forces in the West.(p)

At a time when Israeli and Palestinian leaders are negotiating a peaceful settlement to respect the national aspirations of both peoples, this documentary serves as a harbinger to the events that have led to the dramatic developments of the past decade. If anything, films such as THE PALESTINIAN enhance and broaden our knowledge and understanding of world events and should be a useful educational tool for the layperson. Thanks Vanessa for your efforts in informing us of a human tragedy and your call for a just solution! It is a must see.