A new Palestinian film is coming: AL-ISRA
The novel adaptation 'EL ISRA' is preparing to be released in the last quarter of 2025 as an international production on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with the Turkish company HMK FİLM.
The highly anticipated adaptation of the novel AL ISRA is set to hit theaters in the last quarter of 2025 as an international production, tackling the deeply complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Backed by Turkish production company HMK Film, the film promises to bring a nuanced and objective perspective to one of the most sensitive issues in modern history.
A Story of Conflict and Peace
Adapted from the novel EL ISRA by celebrated screenwriter and author Talat Özpolat, the upcoming film delves into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with a particular focus on the events that unfolded starting October 7, 2023. The film’s mission, as emphasized by HMK Film Board Chairman Hacı Mehmet Kılınç, is clear: to promote peace and present an unbiased narrative that avoids passing judgment on any religion or nation.
In Kılınç’s own words, “The main mission of our film is PEACE. We have carefully crafted a story that presents the conflict objectively, without bias toward any religion or nation.”
The script, developed over the course of four years, underwent significant updates in response to recent developments. Following six months of meticulous revisions, the production team is now ready to bring this timely story to audiences worldwide.
An International Effort with a Global Cast
Highlighting the project’s international scope, the film will feature actors from four different countries, underscoring its commitment to representing diverse voices and perspectives. Kılınç described EL ISRA as a project aimed at global audiences, stating, “We are undertaking an international project with a cast consisting of actors from four different countries.”
The film’s production will span multiple iconic locations, including New York, Istanbul, Hatay, and Jerusalem, which reflect the cultural and historical depth of the story. Details about the director and leading cast members remain under wraps, adding to the intrigue surrounding the project.
A Decade-Long Vision Realized
The journey of EL ISRA began ten years ago when Talat Özpolat first penned the novel that inspired the film. Kılınç recalled his initial reaction to the story: “When I read the novel EL ISRA written by Talat Özpolat ten years ago, I thought, ‘We should definitely film this story.’”
Recent events added even more urgency and relevance to the narrative, leading to significant updates to the script. Screenwriters Cavidan Balcı and Talat Özpolat collaborated closely to craft a screenplay that maintains the integrity of the novel while adapting it to the current socio-political climate.
Production and Release Timeline
Principal photography for EL ISRA is set to begin soon, with filming scheduled in New York, Istanbul, Hatay, and Jerusalem. These diverse locations promise to enhance the film’s authenticity and bring its powerful story to life.
HMK Film has announced that the movie will premiere globally in the last quarter of 2025, offering audiences around the world a thought-provoking cinematic experience that transcends borders and perspectives.
A Cinematic Call for Peace
EL ISRA is more than just a film about conflict; it is a call for understanding, compassion, and the pursuit of peace. By presenting the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through an objective lens, the filmmakers aim to spark dialogue and encourage viewers to reflect on the universal values of humanity.
As anticipation builds for its release, EL ISRA promises to be a significant cultural and cinematic event, reminding us all of the power of storytelling to bridge divides and inspire hope.
