The Lemon Tree

New Jersey Premiere

Salma Zidane is a Palestinian widow who faithfully tends her father’s 50-year old lemon grove.  The trees are her family’s legacy and the lemons are her livelihood.  When the Israeli Defense Minister moves in next door, he decides that the grove poses a security threat to him and his wife and he orders it cut down.  The legal battle that follows becomes a parable for the entire Israeli/Palestinian conflict.  The Lemon Tree is a political fable, but it’s also a story of solidarity, trust, and love.

Post screening discussion with Rachel Kahn-Troster, Rabbis for Human Rights

“It is ever so rare that a truly good and thought provoking movie appears in cinemas around the world. And even much more rare that such a movie could objectively capture the reality and suffering of those who live in Israel and Palestine.” Israel News Agency “The rare ability to make intelligent, entertaining cinema from hot-button current issues is beautifully illustrated by LEMON TREE…” Variety.com

Winner of the Audience Award at the Berlin International Film Festival

Lead Actress Hiam Abbass, Winner, 2008 Ophir Award at the Israeli Academy Awards

Director: Eran Riklis
Country: Israel/Germany/France
Year: 2008
Length: 106 minutes
Format: 35mm
Language: Hebrew, Arabic, English with English Subtitles