Resistance، Why? 

The film “Resistance, Why?” is a documentary film directed by Lebanese director Christian Ghazi in 1971, and is considered one of the most prominent films of “revolutionary cinema.” The film presents a brief history of the Palestinian people’s struggle against the British and then Zionist occupation, through the presentation of testimonies from Palestinian resistance figures residing in Lebanon, such as Ghassan Kanafani, Sadiq Jalal al-Azm, and Nabil Shaath. These figures discuss the importance of revolution and the necessity of continuous struggle to achieve a free and democratic state that includes all citizens regardless of their affiliations.

The film was produced during a politically charged period, focusing on armed struggle and popular struggle as the two main weapons of the Palestinian revolution, reflecting the prevailing ideology of the time calling for the liberation of all of Palestine. It was filmed with the support of the “June 5th” Association and with the participation of Nawari Eddin Chati. The film is a rare documentation of the spirit of resistance and a testament to the struggles of a people seeking to regain their historical and human rights.

Unfortunately, the film was damaged during the Lebanese Civil War and was considered lost, but it was later rediscovered and restored to return to the public and remind us of the roots and history of the Palestinian struggle against imperialism and injustice.

The film was screened at Al-Binaa Cultural Cinema Club as part of the Palestinian Cinema Days event.