Wedding in Galilee

An excellent first feature from the Palestinian Khleifi, in which the mayor of an Israeli-controlled Palestinian village insists that his son be married in traditional Arabic style. But the village is divided when the Israeli governor, fearing a political demonstration, agrees to suspend martial law for the occasion only on condition that he himself be allowed to attend. Performed mainly by local people, shot in Galilee and the occupied West Bank, the film is intelligent, surprisingly sensuous, and a moving plea for liberty and understanding.