Washington, DC | www.adc.org | February 21, 2014- The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) and the DC Palestinian Film and Arts
Festival (DCPFAF) hosted a private screening of the Oscar nominated Palestinian film “Omar” at the Angelika Film Center
in Fairfax, VA. The screening was followed by a panel discussion with Director Mr. Hany Abu-Assad and Producer/Actor Mr.
Waleed Zuitar.
The theater was filled to capacity, and tickets sold out quickly, as many were eager to see Mr. Abu-Assad’s highly
acclaimed second Oscar nominated Palestinian film. Omar is the first Palestinian feature film to be almost entirely
financed by Palestinians. In fact, 95% of Omar’s financing came from private Palestinian donations. The film was shot on
location in Palestine, including many scenes in Jerusalem.
ADC President Samer Khalaf stated, “I commend Hany Abu-Assad and Waleed Zuitar for providing the Palestinian community
with a vehicle to tell their own narrative.”
After the screening, Mr. Abu-Assad Actor and Mr. Zuitar discussed the film, including their experience, both good and
bad. The audience was given the opportunity to ask questions, which led to a lively and friendly dialogue. Mr. Abu-Assad
expressed the symbolic importance of the film being accepted in the film industry as a Palestinian film. The film is
nominated for an Academy Award as a Palestinian film, which Abu-Assad welcomed as a great accomplishment. Mr. Zuitar
noted that the film has been very well received by everyone who has had the opportunity to view it, including both
Palestinians and Israelis alike. Both Abu-Assad and Zuitar expressed optimism that the film will help people to better
understand and empathize with the plight of the Palestinians.
Omar will open in over 40 US Cities Today! We are working hard to mobilize our communities for a strong opening week. Let's
make this major Palestinian achievement a box office success in the US. Early Box Office results will dictate how long
Omar plays in theaters - so, we ask you to please rally as many of your people as possible to see what the critics are
raving about.
Click here to see theaters and showtimes nationwide and to watch the official trailer!
ENDS