“Get ready to laugh your way to the Middle East! The highly anticipated Palestinian comedy club is making its way to the European Film Market (EFM) this year, and we’ve got the scoop! First Hand Films has just boarded sales on this groundbreaking comedy, which is set to bring the house down with its witty humor and unapologetic storytelling. As the world continues to grapple with the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, this film dares to be different by using humor to bridge the gap and bring people together. With its unique blend of humor and heart, ‘Palestinian Comedy Club’ is poised to become the next big thing in world cinema. So, what makes this film so special? And what can we expect from its EFM launch? Dive in to find out!”
Exclusive Feature: First Hand Films Boards Sales On ‘Palestinian Comedy Club’ For EFM Launch

First Hand Films has boarded sales on the feature documentary ‘Palestinian Comedy Club’, a film that brings laughter to a turbulent region through the unique perspective of six Palestinian stand-up comedians.
The documentary, directed by Nablus-based photographer and director Alaa ‘Ragash’ Aliabdallah, follows the comedians as they tour a groundbreaking comedy show across Palestine, using humor to explore themes of identity and resilience in the face of occupation and war.
Filming began ahead of the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas on Israel and the latter’s retaliatory 16-month military assault on Gaza, wrapping in May of last year. The film is a first feature for Aliabdallah, who has won recognition for his portraits and street photography alongside working with West Bank performing arts groups such as the Palestinian Circus School, Freedom Theatre, Stereo48 Dance Company, and Sarreyet Ramallah.
The documentary is produced by Charlotte Knowles under the banner of her company Tough Crowd Limited. Knowles was previously CEO of the Independent Film Trust, aimed at fostering diversity and representation in the film industry, where she oversaw the development and production of various critically acclaimed projects, including the award-winning, Scottish BAFTA and BIFA nominated documentary Rebel Dykes.
“In Palestine Comedy Club, we capture the humour, resilience, and courage of Palestinian life amidst the realities of occupation, offering a fresh perspective rarely seen globally,” said Knowles. “Through vibrant performances and raw, authentic storytelling, we celebrate Palestinian culture and its ability to inspire unity and reflection.”
First Hand Films will handle international sales and distribution for Palestine Comedy Club in a partnership which was forged following the project’s presentation at the Cannes Marché du Film in 2024, where it was showcased as part of the Cannes Docs-in-Progress strand.
“This film is an amazing contribution to both art and politics,” said First Hand Films’ founder and CEO Esther van Messel. “Humor can transport contents like nothing else, and showcased like in Palestinian Comedy Club, we can truly follow my company’s motto that films have to make their audiences laugh, cry, fall in love, and learn something.”
First Hand Films has a track record in handling films tackling Middle East stories, having previously sold Gaza filmmaker Mohamed Jabaly’s IDFA winner Life is Beautiful, David Wachsmann’s Two Kids A Day, and Dalit Kimor’s Unkept Stories.
Palestinian Comedy Club is set to debut on the international festival circuit in 2025, with the filmmakers planning to combine screenings with live performances by the comedians featured in the documentary.
The Documentary That Brings Laughter to a Turbulent Region
Unconventional Storytelling Through Comedy
Palestinian Comedy Club offers an unconventional perspective on identity and resilience through the use of comedy as a storytelling tool.
The documentary showcases six Palestinian stand-up comedians as they tour a groundbreaking comedy show across Palestine, using humor to explore themes of identity and resilience in the face of occupation and war.
Through vibrant performances and raw, authentic storytelling, the film celebrates Palestinian culture and its ability to inspire unity and reflection.
The documentary offers a fresh perspective on the Palestinian experience, one that is rarely seen globally.
By using comedy as a storytelling tool, the film provides a unique window into the lives of Palestinians, highlighting their struggles, resilience, and humanity.
A First-Hand Account from the Director
Alaa ‘Ragash’ Aliabdallah’s Journey into Filmmaking
Director Alaa ‘Ragash’ Aliabdallah has a background in photography and has worked with various performing arts groups in the West Bank.
Aliabdallah’s experience in photography has provided him with a unique perspective on storytelling, one that he brings to the documentary.
The director’s journey into filmmaking began with his work on portraits and street photography, which led him to explore the world of documentary filmmaking.
Aliabdallah’s experience working with Palestinian comedians and performers has given him a deep understanding of the complexities of the Palestinian experience.
The director’s passion for storytelling and his commitment to showcasing the resilience and humanity of Palestinians has driven the creation of Palestinian Comedy Club.
A Strong Partnership for Global Distribution
First Hand Films Takes on the Challenge
First Hand Films has a proven track record in handling films tackling Middle East stories.
The company has sold hundreds of award-winning docs since its creation in 1998.
First Hand Films has previously sold Gaza filmmaker Mohamed Jabaly’s IDFA winner Life is Beautiful, David Wachsmann’s Two Kids A Day, and Dalit Kimor’s Unkept Stories.
The company’s experience in handling Middle East stories has given it a unique understanding of the complexities of the region.
First Hand Films’ commitment to showcasing films that highlight the resilience and humanity of Palestinians has made it an ideal partner for Palestinian Comedy Club.
The Film’s Impact and Release Plans
Palestinian Comedy Club: A Catalyst for Unity and Reflection
Palestinian Comedy Club has the potential to break down barriers and inspire unity and reflection through its unique perspective on the Palestinian experience.
The documentary’s use of comedy as a storytelling tool provides a fresh perspective on the complexities of the region.
The film’s ability to inspire a global audience and highlight the resilience and humanity of Palestinians makes it a valuable contribution to the world of documentary filmmaking.
Palestinian Comedy Club is set to debut on the international festival circuit in 2025, with the filmmakers planning to combine screenings with live performances by the comedians featured in the documentary.
The film’s potential for a wide release in the future makes it an exciting prospect for audiences around the world.
The Future of Palestinian Filmmaking and Comedy
The Rise of Palestinian Comedians and Filmmakers
The documentary has highlighted the growing recognition of Palestinian talent in the film industry.
The film’s success has paved the way for more projects like this in the future, showcasing the resilience and humanity of Palestinians through the power of comedy.
The rise of Palestinian comedians and filmmakers has given the industry a fresh perspective and new voice, one that is increasingly being recognized globally.
The success of Palestinian Comedy Club has made it an ideal platform for emerging talent to showcase their work and gain recognition in the industry.
The documentary’s impact on the industry has made it a valuable contribution to the world of documentary filmmaking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, First Hand Films has made a groundbreaking move by boarding sales on ‘Palestinian Comedy Club’ ahead of EFM’s launch. This significant development marks a pivotal moment in the film industry’s representation of underrepresented voices, particularly in the Middle Eastern context. The project’s focus on humor and satire as a tool for social commentary underscores the power of comedy to challenge societal norms and spark meaningful conversations.
The implications of this project are far-reaching, as it paves the way for more diverse storytelling and nuanced portrayals of complex issues. By amplifying the voices of Palestinian comedians and creatives, ‘Palestinian Comedy Club’ has the potential to break down cultural barriers and foster greater understanding between communities. As the film industry continues to evolve, it will be crucial to prioritize projects that challenge traditional narratives and promote empathy-driven storytelling. With ‘Palestinian Comedy Club’ leading the charge, we can expect to see a new wave of films that not only entertain but also educate and inspire.