The Idol

Based on an incredible, inspiring true story full of laughter, tears, and gorgeous music, The Idol follows Mohammed Assaf, a young Palestinian boy who lives in Gaza and dreams of being a singer. He and his sister use all of their resources to start a band and get some gigs playing at weddings. As Assaf grows up, he increasingly realizes what a gift his beautiful singing voice is.

While a siege of Gaza intensifies, Assaf makes a daring escape to Egypt so that he can audition for Arab Idol, the most popular TV show in the Arab world. In front of a national audience, he not only gets to live out his dreams but lend a hopeful voice to the voiceless people of his home country.

Director Hany Abu-Assad was nominated for the Best Foreign Language Academy Award with his two previous films, Omar (2013) and Paradise Now (2005). The Idol is Palestine’s submission to the next Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film. In Arabic with English subtitles. (95 mins., DCP)