Habibi 2011
Directed by Susan Youssef, *Habibi (2011)* is a poignant Palestinian drama that unfolds in the heart of Gaza, where tradition clashes with the timeless power of love.
Director: Susan Youssef
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Habibi (2011) about?
Set in Gaza, *Habibi* follows two students whose love is tested when they're forced to return to the West Bank. Qays fights for their connection by turning the town into a canvas for his poetic devotion, reimagining a timeless story of passion against all odds.
Who directed Habibi?
Susan Youssef directed *Habibi*, bringing a poetic and visually striking approach to this modern retelling of an ancient Sufi parable.
Who stars in Habibi?
The film stars Maisa Abd Elhadi as the object of Qays's devotion, alongside Qais Nashif, Yosef Abu Wardeh, and Amer Khalil in key roles.
Is Habibi (2011) worth watching?
With its emotional depth and striking visuals, *Habibi* is a gem for fans of intimate dramas and poetic storytelling. While not widely rated on IMDb, its themes of love and resilience resonate powerfully, making it a compelling watch for those seeking meaningful cinema.
How long is Habibi?
The runtime of *Habibi* is 78 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Habibi (2011) — Gaza's Forbidden Romance in a Modern Sufi Tale
Directed by Susan Youssef, *Habibi (2011)* is a poignant Palestinian drama that unfolds in the heart of Gaza, where tradition clashes with the timeless power of love. The film follows two young students whose relationship is tested when circumstances force them back to the West Bank, igniting a poetic rebellion as one lover, Qays, transforms the streets into a canvas for his passion. Inspired by the ancient Sufi tale of Majnun Layla, this modern retelling blends raw emotion with the stark realities of life under occupation, creating a visually striking and emotionally resonant story. The film's intimate portrait of love in extraordinary circumstances lingers long after the credits roll, evoking a sense of both hope and melancholy.
Starring Maisa Abd Elhadi and Qais Nashif, *Habibi* captures the tension between personal desire and societal expectations through deeply human performances. Youssef's direction lends the film a lyrical quality, where every graffiti-painted wall and quiet glance feels like a verse in an unspoken poem. The movie's atmospheric blend of romance and resilience makes it a standout in contemporary Palestinian cinema, offering a window into a world where love becomes both a rebellion and a sanctuary.