Basil Khalil, a highly acclaimed writer and director, hails from Nazareth, where he was born and raised to a Palestinian father and a British-Irish mother. His impressive career has garnered numerous accolades, including Academy Award and Palme d'Or nominations.
Khalil's debut feature film, A Gaza Weekend, premiered at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival, where it won the prestigious FIPRESCI prize. This milestone achievement marked a significant turning point in his career, solidifying his position as a talented and innovative filmmaker.
Prior to A Gaza Weekend, Khalil co-wrote and directed the short film Ave Maria, which premiered in the official selection at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival. This critically acclaimed film went on to receive an Oscar nomination, further cementing Khalil's reputation as a master of his craft.
Khalil's educational background is equally impressive, having studied for an MA in script development at Screen Academy Scotland in Edinburgh. He then honed his skills in the television industry, working on various productions in London.
In 2011, Khalil was featured by Screen International Magazine as one of the "top 10 Arab filmmakers to watch," a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.
