Sobhi Zobaidi’s first and – as the title indicates – very personal film was made in memory of the foundation of the state of Israel, an event with a heritage that weighed heavy on life in the Palestinian refugee camps. Following in the tracks of the map of the title, fragments are brought together by fragile, precious links: an old ceramic pot, a fading letter. Slow-motion historic black & white pictures are accompanied by spiritual songs by American Indians. In interviews the Intifada is defended and the speakers do not shirk from confronting the narrator with their frank opinions. But sitting with a few stoic old men, the narrator is brought back down to earth. My Very Private Map is a lyrical ode to Palestine; not a film that puts tears in your eyes, but one that reminds you of your ability to cry.
