The Palestinian actor and filmmaker Mohammad Bakri, a figure celebrated for his artistry and mired in controversy for his political stance, has died at the age of 72. His family confirmed his passing on Wednesday, citing heart and lung problems.
A Career Spanning Cultures and Conflict
Bakri, who held Israeli citizenship and was born in northern Israel, forged a unique path in both Arab and Hebrew-language cinema and theatre. He studied at Tel Aviv University and performed at Israel's national theatre in Tel Aviv, appearing in notable Israeli films during the 1980s and 1990s.
His work often sought to humanise the Palestinian experience for Israeli audiences. In the 1980s, he starred in 'Beyond the Walls', a seminal film about incarcerated Israelis and Palestinians. Professor Raya Morag of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem noted that Bakri "broke stereotypes" and allowed Palestinians to be seen as heroes in Israeli society through such roles.
His acclaimed one-man-show from 1986, 'The Pessoptimist', based on Emile Habiby's writings, explored the intricate emotions of navigating both Israeli and Palestinian identities.
'Jenin, Jenin' and Lasting Controversy
Bakri's career reached a definitive turning point with his 2003 documentary, 'Jenin, Jenin'. The film depicted the aftermath of an Israeli military operation in the West Bank city during the second intifada, focusing on Palestinian destruction and grief.
The Israeli government banned the film, deeming it defamatory and unbalanced. Bakri faced nearly two decades of legal battles in Israel as a result. In 2022, the Supreme Court upheld the ban and ordered Bakri to pay tens of thousands of dollars in damages to an Israeli military officer for defamation.
Professor Morag stated that the documentary made Bakri a polarising figure in Israel, and he never worked in mainstream Israeli cinema again. "He was a firm voice that did not change during the years," she added.
Final Acclaim and Enduring Advocacy
Despite the controversy, Bakri continued his artistic advocacy. In 2025, he starred alongside his actor sons, Adam and Saleh, in the drama 'All That's Left of You'. The film, tracing a Palestinian family over 76 years, was shortlisted for an Academy Award for Best International Feature Film.
His cousin, Rafic, told the Arabic news site Al-Jarmaq that Bakri was a tenacious advocate for his people, using his art to express unwavering support. Bakri also faced some criticism within Palestinian society for his earlier cooperation with Israeli institutions.
Reflecting on his legacy, Professor Morag said, "He was a very brave person... choosing not to be conformist in any way, and paying the price in both societies." Mohammad Bakri's work remains a testament to the complexities of identity and narrative within one of the world's most protracted conflicts.
