"Paradise Now" Screening and Discussion

Oscar-Nominated "Paradise Now" in Oakland Thursday, March 9, 2006 The Middle East Children's Alliance will show the Oscar-nominated Palestinian film “Paradise Now” at a special screening at Oakland’s Grand Lake Theatre (3200 Grand Avenue) on Thursday, March 9 at 7:30pm. Discussion to follow. As always, MECA is raising funds for Palestinian children, so we’re asking for a “minimum suggested donation” of $10 at the door. “Paradise Now” is Palestinian director Hani Abu-Assad's film about two young men who are enlisted for a suicide bombing mission in Israel. It beat out films from France, China and South Africa to win the Golden Globe award for best foreign film. In his acceptance speech Abu- Assad thanked his staff, saying it was a landmark for the Palestinian nation on its way to equality and freedom. The film has won a plethora of international prizes, including the "European Oscar" and best film award at the Holland film festival. Last month the screenplay won the European film academy award, and it has been nominated as the Palestinian entry for the Oscar's Best Foreign Film award.