Heavy Metal

2023 | documentary short | 31 min
by Edward Knowles, Timo Bruun
SUMMARY

The girls of Champ Camp are in some ways typical teenagers — eager to challenge the old ways and looking to make their mark, pursue their purpose. But Adla, Rahmeeh and We’am – Palestinians growing up in Jordan’s Al-Baqa’a refugee camp– can also lift as much as 70 KG and are aiming for medals in international weightlifting competitions. Maybe even the Olympics!

To book their ticket, the young women must succeed on stage in front of their loved ones in the heart of a refugee camp. The pressure of the competition leads to tears and triumph as the team dazzles the crowd with their formidable strength.

What does it mean to be a strong young Palestinian woman?

Heavy Metal is part of Sports Explains the World, a series from Meadowlark Media. Each film in the series provides intimate, character-driven stories rooted in sports that deliver larger messages about humanity and the pivotal times we live in.

GALLERY
TRAILER

TIPS ON VIEWING THIS YEAR’S VIRTUAL FESTIVAL

Which films screen on which days?

All films offered virtually can be viewed any time during the 10 days.

Can I view films virtually even if I live outside the Boston area?

Yes. Please be advised that some films have georestrictions set by the filmmaker or distributor. Each film’s georestriction is specified in its listing.

I have a ticket, now how do I view the film?

Once the festival opens, on October 13 at 6 pm, the ticket unlocks the film and makes it available for viewing. You’ll be able to watch all virtual screenings via Apple TV, Roku, and Android TV as well as screencasting from your PC or mobile device.

After I’ve started a film, can I pause it or will I lose access?

Yes, you can pause the film.

How long do I have to view the film?

From the moment you unlock a film, you have 48 hours to finish viewing it.

Where can I get support if problems arise?

On the BPFF Virtual Festival page, click on the Need Help? button in the top right-hand corner. Click to see FAQs and launch live help via Chat.

Can I use my 3 Film Pass or Full Festival Pass to attend a live screening?

No, live screenings require purchase of a separate ticket.

 

Still have questions?

Email us at info@bostonpalestinefilmfest.org.