R21 aka Restoring Solidarity

R21 aka Restoring Solidarity reflects on twenty Palestinian 16mm films safeguarded in Japan through solidarity movements of the 1960s–80s. Framed by an undelivered letter from a Japanese activist to a Palestinian filmmaker, the film functions as a catalogue, archive and time machine, restoring memories of global solidarity, shared aspirations, struggle and a disappearing generation.

Mohanad Yaqubi: ‘The word “archive” [usually refers to a] building that holds documents, and according to Achille Mbembe, this “archive” status and power [are] derived from this entanglement of building and documents. In the Palestinian case, the building of an archive does not exist, since the land of Palestine is under occupation, and the documents of the Palestinians are scattered all around the globe. So, when we say that this film is an archive, we suggest its narrative structure as a “building” that holds a collection of films, of documents. From this perspective, the film serves as an inventory of the 20 reels, one where all the filmographic information can be found in the credits, and where the archive’s visitors are invited to observe the reoccurring cinematic and political patterns held within. The film’s chronological order invites independent readings by the viewer, while the narration helps to explore the motives of the Palestine solidarity group. The film is a homage to the Japanese solidarity group that collected and screened these films around Japan, in classes, in political settings, touring cinemas, and community centres. It is also a thank you letter, from Palestinian filmmakers to their Japanese counterparts, for keeping these films safe, and for telling a story of people’s struggle imprinted not only on celluloid, but on the consciousness of a generation.’